U.S. patent application number 17/675646 was filed with the patent office on 2022-07-14 for stackable foldable transportable buildings.
The applicant listed for this patent is Build IP LLC. Invention is credited to Kyle Denman, Galiano Tiramani, Paolo Tiramani.
Application Number | 20220220758 17/675646 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | |
Filed Date | 2022-07-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220220758 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Tiramani; Paolo ; et
al. |
July 14, 2022 |
Stackable Foldable Transportable Buildings
Abstract
A spacer system for stacked building structures that is in
mating engagement with a seal plate provided on an edge of an
enclosure component.
Inventors: |
Tiramani; Paolo; (Las Vegas,
NV) ; Tiramani; Galiano; (Las Vegas, NV) ;
Denman; Kyle; (North Las Vegas, NV) |
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Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Build IP LLC |
North Las Vegas |
NV |
US |
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|
Appl. No.: |
17/675646 |
Filed: |
February 18, 2022 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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17527520 |
Nov 16, 2021 |
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17675646 |
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PCT/US2021/059440 |
Nov 16, 2021 |
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17527520 |
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PCT/US2021/056415 |
Oct 25, 2021 |
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PCT/US2021/059440 |
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63188101 |
May 13, 2021 |
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63136268 |
Jan 12, 2021 |
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63188101 |
May 13, 2021 |
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63136268 |
Jan 12, 2021 |
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63196400 |
Jun 3, 2021 |
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63181447 |
Apr 29, 2021 |
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63136268 |
Jan 12, 2021 |
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63192349 |
May 24, 2021 |
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63188101 |
May 13, 2021 |
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63181447 |
Apr 29, 2021 |
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International
Class: |
E04H 1/12 20060101
E04H001/12; E03B 3/03 20060101 E03B003/03; E04B 1/343 20060101
E04B001/343; E04B 7/22 20060101 E04B007/22; E04C 1/39 20060101
E04C001/39; E04D 13/04 20060101 E04D013/04 |
Claims
1. A spacer system for stacked enclosure components, comprising:
(a) a first enclosure component having a horizontal first surface,
an opposed horizontal second surface and an edge with an edge
length; (b) a planar elongate first seal plate having a first seal
plate edge, an opposed second seal plate edge, a seal plate
exterior face, an opposed seal plate interior face and a seal plate
thickness, the first seal plate edge provided with a first set of
stepped locating ridges extending from the first seal plate edge
inwardly into the seal plate thickness toward the second seal plate
edge, and the seal plate interior face secured to the edge of the
first enclosure component; (b) a spacer plate including a planar
base having a spacer plate exterior face, an opposed spacer plate
interior face, a spacer plate thickness, and a lip extending away
from the spacer plate interior face, the lip having an edge distal
from the spacer plate interior face which includes a second set of
stepped locating ridges; and (c) the spacer plate interior face
positioned against the horizontal first surface of the first
enclosure component adjacent the edge of the first enclosure
component, with the second set of stepped locating ridges in a
mating relationship with the first set of stepped locating
ridges.
2. The spacer system as in claim 1, wherein the spacer plate has a
spacer plate length equal to the edge length.
3. The spacer system as in claim 1, wherein the spacer plate is one
of a plurality of spacer plates secured to the horizontal first
surface of the first enclosure component adjacent the edge of the
first enclosure component.
4. The spacer system of claim 1, further comprising a third set of
stepped locating ridges extending from the second seal plate edge
inwardly into the seal plate thickness toward the first seal plate
edge.
5. The spacer system of claim 1, wherein the seal plate is
polyvinyl chloride.
6. The spacer system of claim 1, wherein the spacer plate is one of
acrylonitrile butadiene styrene or polyvinyl chloride.
7. The spacer system of claim 1, wherein the first enclosure
component is a planar laminate that includes (i) a planar foam
panel layer having a first face and an opposed second face, (ii) a
planar first structural layer having an interior face bonded to the
first face of the foam panel layer and an exterior face, and (iii)
a planar second structural layer bonded to the second face of the
foam panel layer.
8. The spacer system of claim 7, wherein the first structural layer
is a metal sheet layer.
9. The spacer system of claim 8, wherein the exterior face of the
first structural layer is coincident with the first surface of the
first enclosure component.
10. The spacer system of claim 9, wherein the second structural
layer is a metal sheet layer.
11. Spaced-apart stacked building structures, comprising: (a) a
first building structure comprising: (i) a floor component having a
bottom surface, an opposed top surface and an edge with a floor
edge length; (ii) a planar elongate first seal plate having a first
seal plate edge, an opposed second seal plate edge, a seal plate
exterior face, an opposed seal plate interior face and a seal plate
thickness, the first seal plate edge provided with a first set of
stepped locating ridges extending from the first seal plate edge
inwardly into the seal plate thickness toward the second seal plate
edge, and the seal plate interior face of the first seal plate
secured to the edge of the floor component; (iii) a first spacer
plate comprising a planar base having a first spacer plate exterior
face, an opposed first spacer plate interior face, a thickness, and
a lip extending away from the first spacer plate interior face, the
lip having an edge distal from the first spacer plate interior face
which includes a second set of stepped locating ridges; and (iv)
the first spacer plate interior face positioned against the bottom
surface of the floor component adjacent the edge of the floor
component, with the second set of stepped locating ridges in a
mating relationship with the first set of locating ridges; (b) a
second building structure comprising: (i) a roof component having a
bottom surface, an opposed top surface and an edge with a roof edge
length; (ii) a planar elongate second seal plate having a first
seal plate edge, an opposed second seal plate edge, a seal plate
exterior face, an opposed seal plate interior face and a seal plate
thickness, the first seal plate edge of the second seal plate
provided with a third set of stepped locating ridges extending from
the first seal plate edge of the second seal plate inwardly into
the seal plate thickness of the second seal plate toward the second
seal plate edge thereof, and the seal plate interior face of the
second seal plate secured to the edge of the roof component; (iii)
a second spacer plate comprising a planar base having a second
spacer plate exterior face, an opposed second spacer plate interior
face, a thickness, and a lip extending away from the second spacer
plate interior face, the lip having an edge distal from the second
spacer plate interior face which includes a fourth set of stepped
locating ridges; and (iv) the second spacer plate interior face
positioned against the top surface of the roof component adjacent
the edge of the roof component, with the fourth set of stepped
locating ridges in a mating relationship with the third set of
locating ridges; and (c) the first spacer place exterior face
positioned against the second spacer plate exterior face.
12. The stacked building structures as in claim 11, wherein the
first spacer plate has a spacer plate length equal to the floor
edge length.
13. The stacked building structures as in claim 12, wherein the
second spacer plate has a spacer plate length equal to the roof
edge length.
14. The stacked building structures as in claim 11, wherein the
first spacer plate is one of a first plurality of spacer plates
positioned against the bottom surface of the floor component
adjacent the edge of the floor component.
15. The stacked building structures as in claim 11, wherein the
second spacer plate is one of a second plurality of spacer plates
positioned against the top surface of the roof component adjacent
the edge of the roof component.
16. The stacked building structures of claim 11, further comprising
a fifth set of stepped locating ridges extending from the second
seal plate edge of the first seal plate inwardly into the seal
plate thickness toward the first seal plate edge of the first seal
plate.
17. The stacked building structures of claim 11, further comprising
a sixth set of stepped locating ridges extending from the second
seal plate edge of the second seal plate inwardly into the seal
plate thickness toward the first seal plate edge of the second seal
plate.
18. The stacked building structures of claim 11, wherein each of
the first seal plate and the second seal plate is polyvinyl
chloride.
19. The stacked building structures of claim 11, wherein each of
the first spacer plate and the second spacer plate is one of
acrylonitrile butadiene styrene or polyvinyl chloride.
20. The stacked building structures of claim 11, wherein the floor
component is a planar laminate that includes (i) a planar foam
panel layer having a first face and an opposed second face, (ii) a
planar first structural layer having an interior face bonded to the
first face of the foam panel layer and an exterior face, and (iii)
a planar second structural layer having a first face, bonded to the
second face of the foam panel layer, and an opposed second
face.
21. The stacked building structures of claim 20, wherein the first
structural layer of the floor component is a metal sheet layer.
22. The stacked building structures of claim 21, wherein the
exterior face of the first structural layer of the floor component
is coincident with the bottom surface of the floor component.
23. The stacked building structures of claim 20, wherein the second
structural layer of the floor component is a metal sheet layer.
24. The stacked building structures of claim 23, wherein the floor
component further comprises a protective layer having a first face
and an opposed second face, with the first face of the protective
layer bonded to the opposed second face of the second structural
layer.
25. The stacked building structures of claim 11, wherein the roof
component is a planar laminate that includes (i) a planar foam
panel layer having a first face and an opposed second face, (ii) a
planar first structural layer having an interior face bonded to the
first face of the foam panel layer and an exterior face, and (iii)
a planar second structural layer having a first face, bonded to the
second face of the foam panel layer, and an opposed second
face.
26. The stacked building structures of claim 25, wherein the first
structural layer of the roof component is a metal sheet layer.
27. The stacked building structures of claim 25, wherein the
exterior face of the first structural layer of the roof component
is coincident with the top surface of the roof component.
28. The stacked building structures of claim 25, wherein the second
structural layer of the roof component is a metal sheet layer.
29. The stacked building structures of claim 25, wherein the roof
component further comprises a protective layer having a first face
and an opposed second face, with the first face of the protective
layer bonded to the opposed second face of the second structural
layer.
30. The stacked building structures of claim 24, wherein the
protective layer is MgO.
31. The stacked building structures of claim 29, wherein the
protective layer is MgO.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation in part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 17/527,520, filed Nov. 16, 2021, which
application is a continuation of PCT Patent Application No.
PCT/US/2021/059440, filed Nov. 16, 2021 and which application
claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/188,101,
filed May 13, 2021 and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/136,268,
filed Jan. 12, 2021; this application is also a continuation in
part of PCT Patent Application No. PCT/US/2021/056415, filed Oct.
25, 2021, which application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 63/196,400, filed Jun. 3, 2021, U.S. Provisional
Application No. 63/181,447, filed Apr. 29, 2021 and U.S.
Provisional Application No. 63/136,268, filed Jan. 12, 2021; and
this application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application
No. 63/188,101, filed May 13, 2021, U.S. Provisional Application
No. 63/181,447, filed Apr. 29, 2021, and U.S. Provisional
Application No. 63/192,349, filed May 24, 2021.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention
[0002] The inventions herein relate to structures, such as
dwellings and other buildings for residential occupancy, commercial
occupancy and/or material storage, and to components for such
structures.
Description of the Related Art
[0003] In the field of residential housing, the traditional
technique for building homes is referred to as "stick-built"
construction, where a builder constructs housing at the intended
location using in substantial part raw materials such as wooden
boards, plywood panels, and steel columns. The materials are
assembled piece by piece over a previously prepared portion of
ground, for example, a poured concrete slab or a poured concrete or
cinder block foundation.
[0004] There have been a variety of efforts to depart from the
conventional construction techniques used to create dwellings, as
well as commercial spaces and like, in an effort to reduce costs.
In this regard, significant advancements in the construction of
dwellings and commercial space have been made by the current
inventors, as exemplified by their patent documents, including U.S.
Pat. Nos. 8,474,194, 8,733,029, 10,688,906, 10,829,029, 10,926,689
and 11,220,816. In one aspect, these patents pertain to fabricating
wall, floor and roof components in a factory that are folded
together into a compact shipping module, and which are then
transported to the intended location and unfolded to yield a fully
formed structure.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] In one aspect, the present inventions are directed to a
spacer system for stacked enclosure components, which comprises a
first enclosure component having a horizontal first surface, an
opposed horizontal second surface and an edge with an edge length,
and a planar elongate first seal plate having a first seal plate
edge, an opposed second seal plate edge, a seal plate exterior
face, an opposed seal plate interior face and a seal plate
thickness. The first seal plate edge is provided with a first set
of stepped locating ridges extending from the first seal plate edge
inwardly into the seal plate thickness toward the second seal plate
edge, and the seal plate interior face secured to the edge of the
first enclosure component. There is also provided a spacer plate
that includes a planar base having a spacer plate exterior face, an
opposed spacer plate interior face, a spacer plate thickness, and a
lip extending away from the spacer plate interior face, with the
lip having an edge distal from the spacer plate interior face which
includes a second set of stepped locating ridges. The spacer plate
interior face is positioned against the horizontal first surface of
the first enclosure component adjacent the edge of the first
enclosure component, with the second set of stepped locating ridges
in a mating relationship with the first set of stepped locating
ridges.
[0006] This and other aspects of the present inventions are
described in the drawings annexed hereto, and in the description of
the preferred embodiments and claims set forth below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a structure prepared in
accordance with the present inventions.
[0008] FIG. 2 is a top schematic view of the structure shown in
FIG. 1.
[0009] FIG. 3 is an end view of a shipping module from which is
formed the finished structure shown in FIG. 1.
[0010] FIGS. 4 and 5 are partial cutaway views of a finished
structure in accordance with the present inventions, depicting in
greater detail aspects of the roof, wall and floor components.
[0011] FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view depicting the
exterior edge reinforcement for a wall component in accordance with
the present inventions.
[0012] FIG. 7 is an exploded cross-sectional view of a
multi-layered, laminate design for use in the enclosure components
of the present inventions.
[0013] FIG. 8A is a perspective view of a foldable I-beam for a
floor component in accordance with the present inventions, in the
beam unfolded position, and FIG. 8B is a side view of a foldable
I-beam for a floor component in accordance with the present
inventions, in the beam folded position.
[0014] FIG. 9A is a schematic perspective view of a fork tube
arrangement for a floor portion in accordance with the present
inventions, FIG. 9B is a schematic cut-away perspective view of a
fork tube arrangement, positioned within a floor portion, in
accordance with the present inventions, and FIG. 9C is a schematic
cut-away perspective view of a floor component in accordance with
the present inventions.
[0015] FIG. 10 is a schematic side view of an I-beam end cap in
accordance with the present inventions.
[0016] FIG. 11A is a section view of a compression seal in
accordance with the present inventions, and FIG. 11B is a side view
of a roof bottom plate with a compression seal provided in one of
its two seal slots in accordance with the present inventions.
[0017] FIG. 12 is an exploded side view of the junction between a
wall vertical interlock and a wall end cap in accordance with the
present inventions, and FIG. 13 is an exploded side view of the
junction between a roof bottom plate and a wall end cap in
accordance with the present inventions.
[0018] FIG. 14 is an exploded side view of the junction between an
I-beam interlock A and an I-beam interlock B in accordance with the
present inventions.
[0019] FIG. 15 is an exploded side view of the junction between a
floor top plate and a wall end cap in accordance with the present
inventions.
[0020] FIG. 16A is a section view of a shear seal in accordance
with the present inventions, and FIG. 16B is a side view of a wall
end interlock with a shear seal provided in its seal slot in
accordance with the present inventions.
[0021] FIG. 17 is an exploded side view of the junction between a
floor top interlock and a wall end interlock A in accordance with
the present inventions.
[0022] FIG. 18 is an exploded side view of the junction between a
wall end interlock B and a wall end interlock A in accordance with
the present inventions.
[0023] FIG. 19A is a side view of the junction between a perimeter
board and an I-beam end cap in accordance with the present
inventions, and FIG. 19B is a depiction of the positioning of an
I-beam end cap, a floor top plate, a wall end cap and a perimeter
board in accordance with the present inventions.
[0024] FIG. 20 is a side view of the junction between a roof skirt
board and an I-beam end lock in accordance with the present
inventions.
[0025] FIG. 21A is an exploded perspective view of a finished
structure in accordance with the present inventions, depicting
suitable locations for the sealing systems of the present
inventions on the horizontally positioned enclosure components, and
FIG. 21B is an exploded perspective view of a finished structure in
accordance with the present inventions, depicting correspondingly
suitable locations for the sealing systems of the present
inventions on the vertically positioned enclosure components.
[0026] FIG. 22 depicts the layout of a three room structure
fabricated in accordance with the present inventions.
[0027] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a two story structure
fabricated in accordance with the present inventions.
[0028] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of an exemplary spacer plate
in accordance with the present inventions.
[0029] FIG. 25 is a side view depicting the arrangement of spacer
plates in connection with two stacked structures.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0030] An embodiment of the foldable, transportable structure 150
in which the inventions disclosed herein can be implemented is
depicted in FIGS. 1 through 5. When fully unfolded, as exemplified
by FIG. 1, structure 150 has a rectangular shape made of three
types of generally planar and rectangular enclosure components 155,
the three types of enclosure components 155 consisting of a wall
component 200, a floor component 300, and a roof component 400. As
shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the perimeter of structure 150 is defined
by first longitudinal edge 106, first transverse edge 108, second
longitudinal edge 116 and second transverse edge 110. For
convenience, a direction parallel to first longitudinal edge 106
and second longitudinal edge 116 may be referred to as the
"longitudinal" direction, a direction parallel to first transverse
edge 108 and second transverse edge 110 may be referred to as the
"transverse" direction; and a direction parallel to the vertical
direction in FIG. 1 may be referred to as the "vertical" direction.
Structure 150 as shown has one floor component 300, one roof
component 400 and four wall components 200; although it should be
understood that the present inventions are applicable to structures
having other configurations as well.
[0031] Enclosure components 155 (wall component 200, floor
component 300 and roof component 400) can be fabricated and
dimensioned as described herein and positioned together to form a
shipping module 100, shown end-on in FIG. 3. The enclosure
components 155 are dimensioned so that the shipping module 100 is
within U.S. federal highway dimensional restrictions. As a result,
shipping module 100 can be transported over a limited access
highway more easily, and with appropriate trailering equipment,
transported without the need for oversize permits. Thus, the basic
components of structure 150 can be manufactured in a factory,
positioned together to form the shipping module 100, and the
modules 100 can be transported to the desired site for the
structure, where they can be readily assembled, as described
herein.
Enclosure Component (155): General Description
[0032] The enclosure components 155 of the present invention
include a number of shared design features that are described
below.
[0033] A. Laminate Structure Design
[0034] Enclosure components 155 can be fabricated using a
multi-layered, laminate design. A particular laminate design that
can be used to fabricate enclosure components 155 comprises a first
structural layer 210, a foam panel layer 213, a second structural
layer 215 and a protective layer 218, as shown in FIG. 7 and
described further below.
[0035] In particular, first structural layer 210 is provided in the
embodiment of enclosure component 155 that is depicted in FIG. 7.
First structural layer 210 in the embodiment shown comprises a
sheet metal layer 205, which can be for example galvanized steel or
aluminum. Sheet metal layer 205 is made from a plurality of
generally planar rectangular metal sheets 206 positioned adjacent
to each other to generally cover the full area of the intended
enclosure component 155.
[0036] Referring again to FIG. 7, there is next provided in the
depicted embodiment of enclosure component 155 a foam panel layer
213, comprising a plurality of generally planar rectangular foam
panels 214 collectively presenting a first face 211 and a second
opposing face 212. Foam panels 214 are made for example of expanded
polystyrene (EPS) foam. A number of these foam panels 214 are
positioned adjacent to each other and superposed first face-down on
first structural layer 210 to generally cover the full area of the
intended enclosure component 155. The foam panels 214 of foam panel
layer 213 preferably are fastened to the metal sheets 206 of first
structural layer 210 using a suitable adhesive, preferably a
polyurethane-based construction adhesive. Foam panel layer 213 can
include exterior edge reinforcement and interior edge
reinforcement, as described further below.
[0037] In the embodiment of the enclosure component 155 depicted in
FIG. 7, there is next provided a second structural layer 215,
having a first face that is positioned on the second opposing face
212 of foam panels 214 (the face distal from first structural layer
210), and also having a second opposing face. Second structural
layer 215 in the embodiment shown comprises a sheet metal layer
216, which can be for example galvanized steel or aluminum. Sheet
metal layer 216 is made from a plurality of generally planar
rectangular metal sheets 217 positioned adjacent to each other and
superposed first face-down on the second opposing face of foam
panel layer 213 to generally cover the full area of the intended
enclosure component 155. The metal sheets 217 of second structural
layer 215 preferably are fastened to foam panel layer 213 using a
suitable adhesive, preferably a polyurethane-based construction
adhesive.
[0038] In the embodiment of the enclosure component 155 depicted in
FIG. 7, there is optionally next provided a protective layer 218,
having a first face that is positioned on the second opposing face
of second structural layer 215 (the face distal from foam panel
layer 213), and also having a second opposing face. Optional
protective layer 218 in the embodiment shown comprises a plurality
of rectangular structural building panels 219 principally
comprising an inorganic composition of relatively high strength,
such as magnesium oxide (MgO). The structural building panels 219
are positioned adjacent to each other and superposed first
face-down on the second opposing face of second structural layer
215 to generally cover the full area of the intended enclosure
component 155. The building panels 219 of protective layer 218
preferably are fastened to second structural layer 215 using a
suitable adhesive, preferably a polyurethane-based construction
adhesive. Protective layer 218 can be used if desired to impart a
degree of fire resistance to the enclosure component 155, as well
as to provide a pleasing texture and/or feel.
[0039] Other embodiments of multi-layered, laminate designs that
can be used to fabricate the enclosure components 155 of the
present invention, are described in U.S. Nonprovisional patent
application Ser. No. 16/786,130, entitled "Foldable Building
Structures with Utility Channels and Laminate Enclosures," filed on
Feb. 10, 2020, which has issued as U.S. Pat. No. 11,118,344. The
contents of that U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No.
16/786,130, entitled "Foldable Building Structures with Utility
Channels and Laminate Enclosures" and filed on Feb. 10, 2020 are
incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein,
particularly including the multi-layered, laminate designs
described for example at 0034-57 and depicted in FIGS. 4A-4D
thereof.
[0040] B. Enclosure Component Exterior Edge Reinforcement
[0041] The exterior edges of each enclosure component 155 (i.e.,
the edges that define the perimeter of enclosure component 155) can
be provided with exterior edge reinforcement, as desired. Exterior
edge reinforcement generally comprises an elongate rigid member
which can protect the foam panel material of foam panel layer 213
that would otherwise be exposed at the exterior edges of enclosure
components 155. Exterior edge reinforcement can be fabricated from
one or more of laminated strand lumber board, wooden board,
C-channel extruded aluminum or steel, or the like, and is generally
secured to the exterior edges of enclosure component 155 with
fasteners, such as screw or nail fasteners, and/or adhesive.
[0042] C. Enclosure Component Partitioning
[0043] Enclosure components 155 in certain instances are
partitioned into enclosure component portions to facilitate forming
a compact shipping module 100. In those instances where an
enclosure component 155 is partitioned into enclosure component
portions, any exterior edge reinforcement on the exterior edges
defining the perimeter of the enclosure component is segmented as
necessary between or among the portions.
[0044] The enclosure component portions can be joined by hinge
structures or mechanisms to permit the enclosure component portions
to be "folded" and thereby contribute to forming a compact shipping
module 100.
[0045] D. Enclosure Component Interior Edge Reinforcement
[0046] An enclosure component 155 partitioned into enclosure
component portions will have interior edges. There will be two
adjacent interior edges for each adjacent pair of enclosure
component portions. Such interior edges can be provided with
interior edge reinforcement. Similar to exterior edge
reinforcement, such interior edge reinforcement generally comprises
an elongate, rigid member which can protect the foam panel material
of foam panel layer 213 which that would otherwise be exposed at
the interior edges of enclosure components 155. Interior edge
reinforcement can be fabricated from one or more of laminated
strand lumber board, wooden board, C-channel extruded aluminum or
steel, or the like, and is generally secured to the interior edges
of enclosure component 155 with fasteners, such as screw or nail
fasteners, and/or adhesive.
[0047] E. Enclosure Component Load Transfer
[0048] In the case of enclosure components 155, it is necessary to
transfer the loads imposed on their surfaces to their exterior
edges, where those loads can be transferred either to or through
adjoining walls, or to the building foundation. For enclosure
components 155 that are horizontally oriented when in use (floor
component 300 and roof component 400), such loads include the
weight of equipment, furniture and people borne by their surfaces,
as well as vertical seismic loads. For enclosure components that
are vertically oriented when in use (wall component 200), such
loads include those arising from meteorological conditions
(hurricanes, tornadoes, etc.) and human action (vehicle and other
object impacts).
[0049] For this purpose, multi-layered, laminate designs as shown
in FIG. 7 will function to transfer the loads described above. To
add additional load transfer capability, structural members, such
as beams and/or joists, can be utilized within the perimeter of the
enclosure components 155, as is deemed appropriate to the specific
design of structure 150 and the particular enclosure component 155,
to assist in the transfer of loads to the exterior edges.
Particular embodiments of such structural members, which also
incorporate hinge structures, are described in U.S. Nonprovisional
patent application Ser. No. 17/527,520 entitled "Folding Beam
Systems", filed Nov. 16, 2021 and having the same inventors as this
disclosure. The contents of that U.S. Nonprovisional patent
application Ser. No. 17/527,520 entitled "Folding Beam Systems",
filed Nov. 16, 2021 and having the same inventors as this
disclosure, is incorporated by reference as if fully set forth
herein, particularly the description of the hinged load transfer
components set forth for example in 0074-0089 and 0104-0126 and in
FIGS. 8A-13E and 15A-24A thereof, as well as the description of the
associated end hinge assemblies set forth for example in 0090-0093
and 0127-0132 and in FIGS. 14A-14B, 24B and 25A-25D thereof.
[0050] Further design details of wall component 200, floor
component 300, and roof component 400 are provided in the sections
following.
Wall Component (200)
[0051] Typically, a structure 150 will utilize four wall components
200, with each wall component 200 corresponding to an entire wall
of structure 150.
[0052] A. General Description
[0053] Wall component 200 has a generally rectangular perimeter. As
shown in FIG. 1, wall components 200 have plural apertures,
specifically a door aperture 202, which has a door frame and door
assembly, and plural window apertures 204, each of which has a
window frame and a window assembly. The height and length of wall
components 200 can vary in accordance with design preference,
subject as desired to the dimensional restrictions applicable to
transport, described above. In this disclosure, structure 150 is
fashioned with all sides of equal length; accordingly, its first
and second longitudinal edges 106 and 116, and its first and second
transverse edges 108 and 110, are all of equal length. It should be
understood however, that the inventions described herein are
applicable to structures having other dimensions, such as where two
opposing wall components 200 are longer than the other two opposing
wall components 200.
[0054] As indicated above, wall components 200 of the present
inventions can utilize a multi-layered, laminate design. In the
embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1 through 6, wall component 200
utilizes the multi-layered, laminate design shown in FIG. 7
employing these particular elements: sheet metal layer 205 of first
structural layer 210 is 24 gauge galvanized steel approximately
0.022-0.028 inch thick, the foam panels 214 of foam panel layer 213
are EPS foam approximately 5.68 inches thick, the sheet metal layer
216 of second structural layer 215 is 24 gauge galvanized steel
approximately 0.022-0.028 inch thick, and the building panels 219
of protective layer 218 are MgO board approximately 0.25 inch (6
mm) thick.
[0055] The perimeter of each wall component 200 is generally
provided with exterior edge reinforcement. As exemplified by wall
component 200 shown in FIG. 6, the exterior edge reinforcement for
wall component 200 is a floor plate 220 along the bottom horizontal
edge, a ceiling plate 240 along the top horizontal edge and two end
pieces 270 respectively fastened at each vertical edge of wall
component 200. In the case of a wall component 200, exterior edge
reinforcement provides regions for fastening like regions of
abutting wall components 200, roof component 400 and floor
component 300, in addition to protecting the exterior edges of foam
panel material. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 through 6, the
exterior edge reinforcement for wall component 200 provided by
floor plate 220, ceiling plate 240, and end pieces 270 is
fabricated from laminated strand lumber board 5.625'' deep and
1.5'' thick.
[0056] B. Partitioned Wall Components
[0057] Referring to FIG. 2, structure 150 has two opposing wall
components 200, where one of the two opposing wall components 200
comprises first wall portion 200s-1 and second wall portion 200s-2,
and the other of the two opposing wall components 200 comprises
third wall portion 200s-3 and fourth wall portion 200s-4. Each of
wall portions 200s-1, 200s-2, 200s-3 and 200s-4 has a generally
rectangular planar structure. As shown in FIG. 2, the interior
vertical edge 192-1 of wall portion 200s-1 is proximate to a
respective interior vertical edge 192-2 of wall portion 200s-2, and
the interior vertical edge 194-3 of wall portion 200s-3 is
proximate a respective interior vertical wall edge 194-4 of wall
portion 200s-4. Interior edge reinforcement can be provided at any
one or more of vertical edges 192-1, 192-2, 194-3 and 194-4. In the
embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 through 6, the interior edge
reinforcement provided at vertical edges 192-1, 192-2, 194-3 and
194-4 is fabricated from laminated strand lumber board 5.625'' deep
and 1.5'' thick.
[0058] Referring again to FIG. 2, first wall portion 200s-1 is
fixed in position on floor portion 300a proximate to first
transverse edge 108, and third wall portion 200s-3 is fixed in
position on floor portion 300a, opposite first wall portion 200s-1
and proximate to second transverse edge 110. First wall portion
200s-1 is joined to second wall portion 200s-2 with a hinge
structure that permits wall portion 200s-2 to pivot about vertical
axis 192 between a folded position and an unfolded position, and
third wall portion 200s-3 is joined to fourth wall portion 200s-4
with a hinge structure to permit fourth wall portion 200s-4 to
pivot about vertical axis 194 between a folded position and an
unfolded position.
[0059] Notably, first wall portion 200s-1 is longer than third wall
portion 200s-3 by a distance approximately equal to the thickness
of wall component 200, and second wall portion 200s-2 is shorter
than fourth wall portion 200s-4 by a distance approximately equal
to the thickness of wall component 200. Furthermore, wall portion
200s-1 and wall portion 200s-3 are each shorter in length (the
dimension in the transverse direction) than the dimension of floor
portion 300a in the transverse direction. Dimensioning the lengths
of wall portions 200s-1, 200s-2, 200s-3 and 200s-4 in this manner
permits wall portions 200s-2 and 200s-4 to nest against each other
in an overlapping relationship when in an inwardly folded position.
In this regard, FIG. 2 depicts wall portions 200s-2 and 200s-4 both
in their unfolded positions, where they are labelled 200s-2u and
200s4-u respectively, and FIG. 2 also depicts wall portions 200s-2
and 200s-4 both in their inwardly folded positions, where they are
labelled 200s-2f and 200s4-f respectively. When wall portions
200s-2 and 200s-4 are in their inwardly folded positions (200s-2f
and 200s-4f), they facilitate forming a compact shipping module.
When wall portion 200s-2 is in its unfolded position (200s-2u), it
forms with wall portion 200s-1 a wall component 200 proximate first
transverse edge 108, and when wall portion 200s-4 is in its
unfolded position (200s-4u), it forms with wall portion 200s-3 a
wall component 200 proximate second transverse edge 110.
[0060] The hinge structures referenced above, for securing first
wall portion 200s-1 to second wall portion 200s-2, and third wall
portion 200s-3 to fourth wall portion 200s-4, can be surface
mounted or recessed, and of a temporary or permanent nature. The
provision of interior edge reinforcement, as described above, can
provide a region for securing such hinge structures. Suitable hinge
structures can be fabricated for example of ferrous or non-ferrous
metal, plastic or leather material.
[0061] C. Unpartitioned Wall Components
[0062] As compared to the two wall components 200 proximate first
and second transverse edges 108 and 110, which are partitioned into
wall portions, the remaining two wall components 200 proximate
first and second longitudinal edges 106 and 116 do not comprise
plural wall portions, but rather each is a single piece structure.
However, one of these wall components 200, which is sometimes
denominated 200P in this disclosure, and which is located on floor
portion 300b proximate first longitudinal edge 106, is pivotally
secured to floor portion 300b by means of hinge structures to
permit wall component 200P to pivot about horizontal axis 105 shown
in FIG. 3 from a folded position to an unfolded position. Pivotally
securing wall component 200P also facilitates forming a compact
shipping module 100. The remaining wall component 200, sometimes
denominated 200R in this disclosure, is rigidly secured on floor
portion 300a proximate second longitudinal edge 116 and abutting
the vertical edges of first wall portion 200s-1 and third wall
portion 200s-3 proximate to second longitudinal edge 116, as shown
in FIG. 2.
[0063] The hinge structures referenced above, for securing wall
component 200P to floor portion 300b, can be surface mounted or
recessed, and of a temporary or permanent nature. The provision of
exterior edge reinforcement, as described above, can provide a
region for securing such hinge structures. Suitable hinge
structures can be fabricated for example of ferrous or non-ferrous
metal, plastic or leather material.
Floor Component (300)
[0064] Typically, structure 150 will utilize one floor component
300; thus floor component 300 generally is the full floor of
structure 150.
[0065] A. General Description
[0066] Floor component 300 has a generally rectangular perimeter.
FIGS. 4 and 5 depict floor component 300 in accordance with the
present inventions. The perimeter of floor component 300 is defined
by first longitudinal floor edge 117, first transverse floor edge
120, second longitudinal floor edge 119 and second transverse floor
edge 118. In particular, (a) first longitudinal floor edge 117, (b)
first transverse floor edge 120, (c) second longitudinal floor edge
119 and (d) second transverse floor edge 118 generally coincide
with (i.e., underlie) (w) first longitudinal edge 106, (x) first
transverse edge 108, (y) second longitudinal edge 116 and (z)
second transverse edge 110, respectively, of structure 150.
[0067] The length and width of floor component 300 can vary in
accordance with design preference. In the particular embodiment of
structure 150 depicted in FIGS. 2, 4 and 5, floor component 300 is
approximately 19 feet (5.79 m) by 19 feet (5.79 m).
[0068] Floor component 300 and its constituent elements are
generally designed and dimensioned in thickness and in other
respects to accommodate the particular loads to which floor
component 300 may be subject. It is preferred that floor component
300 utilize a multi-layered, laminate design, such as that
described in connection with FIG. 7. In the embodiment shown in
FIGS. 4 and 5, the bottom-most surface of floor component 300
comprises sheet metal layer 205 of first structural layer 210, with
sheet metal layer 205 being 24 gauge galvanized steel approximately
0.022-0.028 inch thick. Above sheet metal layer 205 there are
provided foam panels 214 of foam panel layer 213. In the embodiment
shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, foam panels 214 are EPS foam approximately
7.125 inches thick. Above foam panel layer 213 there is provided
sheet metal layer 216 of second structural layer 215, with sheet
metal layer 216 being 24 gauge galvanized steel approximately
0.022-0.028 inch thick. Above sheet metal layer 216 of second
structural layer 215, there are provided building panels 219 of
protective layer 218, with building panels 219 being MgO board
approximately 0.25 inch (6 mm) thick.
[0069] The perimeter of each floor component 300 is generally
provided with exterior edge reinforcement. As exterior edge
reinforcement for the embodiments of floor component 300 shown in
FIGS. 4 and 5, a first footing beam 320 (visible edge-on in FIG. 4)
is positioned at the first longitudinal floor edge 117 of floor
component 300, a second footing beam 320 (visible edge-on in FIG.
5) is positioned at the second transverse floor edge 118 of floor
component 300, a third footing beam 320 (visible edge-on in FIG. 5)
is positioned at the first transverse floor edge 120 of floor
component 300, and a fourth footing beam 320 (visible edge-on in
FIG. 4) is positioned at the second longitudinal floor edge 119 of
floor component 300. In the case of floor component 300, the
exterior edge reinforcement provided by footing beams 320 assists
in resisting vertical loads and transferring such loads to any roof
component 400 thereunder and then to underlying wall components
200, and/or to the foundation of the structure 150, in addition to
protecting the edges of foam panel material of the foam panel layer
213. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 through 6, the exterior
edge reinforcement provided by footing beams 420 of floor component
300 is fabricated from laminated strand lumber board 7.125'' deep
and 1.5'' thick.
[0070] B. Floor Partitioning
[0071] The floor component 300 is partitioned into floor portion
300a and floor portion 300b. FIG. 2 shows floor portions 300a and
300b in plan view, and FIG. 4 shows floor portions 300a and 300b in
section view, edge-on.
[0072] Each of the floor portions 300a and 300b is a planar
generally rectangular structure, with floor portion 300a adjoining
floor portion 300b. Interior edge 301a of floor portion 300a abuts
interior edge 301b of floor portion 300b, as shown in FIG. 4. As
interior edge reinforcement, a reinforcing board 307 is positioned
in floor portion 300a adjacent interior edge 301a, and a
reinforcing board is positioned in floor portion 300b adjacent
interior edge 301b. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 through 6,
the interior edge reinforcement provided by reinforcing boards 307
is laminated strand lumber board 7.125'' deep and 1.5'' thick.
[0073] Referring to structure 150 shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, floor
portion 300a is fixed in position relative to first wall portion
200s-1, third wall portion 200s-3 and wall component 200s-R. Floor
portion 300a is joined with hinge structures to floor portion 300b,
so as to permit floor portion 300b to pivot through approximately
ninety degrees (90.degree.) of arc about a horizontal axis 305,
located proximate the top surface of floor component 300, between a
fully folded position, where floor portion 300b is vertically
oriented as shown in FIG. 3, and a fully unfolded position, shown
in FIGS. 2 and 4, where floor portion 300b is horizontally oriented
and co-planar with floor portion 300a. Particular embodiments of
suitable hinge structures for joining floor portion 300a to floor
portion 300b are described below.
[0074] C. Hinged Vertical Load Transfer Components
[0075] FIG. 8A shows a beam assembly 325 that can be placed within
floor component 300 to provide reinforcement in the direction along
the beam and assist in transferring vertical loads borne by floor
component 300 to its edges. Beam assembly 325 includes two I-beams
326a and 326b. I-beam 326a is positioned approximately in the
middle of floor portion 300a, I-beam 326b is positioned
approximately in the middle of floor portion 300b, and each of
I-beams 326a and 326b is oriented in the transverse direction. A
hinge assembly 329A joins I-beam 326a to I-beam 326b. The hinge
assembly 329A permits beam assembly 325 to be folded to a beam
folded position shown in FIG. 8B and unfolded to a beam unfolded
position shown in FIG. 8A. Further, the hinge assembly 329A can be
locked when beam assembly 325 is in the beam unfolded position,
which transforms beam assembly 325 into a rigid structure that will
reinforce floor component 300 in the direction perpendicular to its
axis of folding.
[0076] Hinge assembly 329A comprises two identical hinge assembly
portions 330A partnered together to form a pivoted junction, as
shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B. A detailed description of the
construction of hinge assembly 329A and its hinge assembly portions
330A is set forth in U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser.
No. 17/527,520 entitled "Folding Beam Systems", filed Nov. 16, 2021
and having the same inventors as the subject application. The
contents of that U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No.
17/527,520 entitled "Folding Beam Systems", filed Nov. 16, 2021 and
having the same inventors as the subject application, is
incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein,
particularly the description of the construction of hinge assembly
329A and its hinge assembly portions 330A set forth for example in
0075-0087 and in FIGS. 9-12 and 13C-13E thereof.
[0077] In the embodiment of floor component 300 utilized in the
structure 150 of FIGS. 1-5, I-beam assembly 325 is located at the
mid-point between first transverse floor edge 120 and second
transverse floor edge 118, and no hinge assemblies 329A are
utilized elsewhere within floor component 300, such as proximate to
first transverse floor edge 120 and second transverse floor edge
118. Therefore, to assist in smoothly rotating floor portion 300b,
there is provided adjacent first transverse floor edge 120 a first
floor end hinge assembly 345A joining floor portions 300a and 300b,
and there is provided adjacent second transverse floor edge 118 a
second floor end hinge assembly 345A joining floor portions 300a
and 300b. The locations of both first and second floor end hinge
assemblies 345A is indicated in FIG. 9C. Floor end hinge assembly
345A comprises two identical floor end hinge portions 350A (not
specified in the figures). A description of the construction of
floor end hinge assembly 345A and its floor end hinge portions 350A
is set forth in U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No.
17/527,520 entitled "Folding Beam Systems", filed Nov. 16, 2021 and
having the same inventors as the subject application. The contents
of that U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 17/527,520
entitled "Folding Beam Systems", filed Nov. 16, 2021 and having the
same inventors as the subject application, is incorporated by
reference as if fully set forth herein, particularly the
description of the construction of floor end hinge assembly 345A
and its floor end hinge portions 350A set forth for example in
0090-0093 and in FIGS. 14A-14B thereof.
[0078] D. Integral Floor Lifting Structure
[0079] Optionally, a structure for facilitating the movement of
shipping module 100 can be provided in floor portion 300a. In
particular, FIG. 9A depicts two fork tubes, 360a and 360b. These
fork tubes 360a, 360b are spaced-apart elongate members and
oriented in the transverse direction within floor portion 300a as
shown, for example, in FIG. 9B. Fork tubes 360a, 360b flank an
I-beam 326a between them, which I-beam 326a assists in the transfer
of vertical loads to the fourth footing beam 320 that is adjacent
second longitudinal floor edge 119, as shown, for example, in FIG.
9B, and to the reinforcing board 307 that is positioned in floor
portion 300a adjacent interior edge 301a as shown, for example, in
FIG. 9C. Hinge assembly 329A assists in further transferring those
vertical loads to I-beam 326b positioned in floor portion 300b, and
then to second footing beam 320 adjacent first longitudinal floor
edge 117. The specifics of I-beams 326a, 326B and hinge assembly
329A are disclosed in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
63/188,101, filed May 13, 2021, entitled "Folding Beam Systems" and
having the same inventors as the subject application. The contents
of that U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/188,101, filed
May 13, 2021, entitled "Folding Beam Systems" and having the same
inventors as the subject application, are incorporated by reference
as if fully set forth herein, particularly the descriptions of the
beam and hinge assemblies set forth for example in 0073-0087 and in
FIGS. 8A-13B thereof. Fork tubes 360a, 360b in the embodiment shown
herein have a rectangular cross section and are made for example of
steel. The specifics of I-beams 326a, 326B and hinge assembly 329A
are also set forth in U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser.
No. 17/527,520 entitled "Folding Beam Systems", filed Nov. 16, 2021
and having the same inventors as the subject application, as
mentioned above. The contents of that U.S. Nonprovisional patent
application Ser. No. 17/527,520 entitled "Folding Beam Systems",
filed Nov. 16, 2021 and having the same inventors as the subject
application, are likewise incorporated by reference as if fully set
forth herein, particularly the description of I-beams 326a, 326B
and hinge assembly 329A set forth for example in 0074-0089 and in
FIGS. 8A-13E thereof
[0080] FIG. 9B depicts the placement of fork tubes 360a, 360b
within the structure of floor portion 300a. Each fork tube 360a,
360b rests on, or is defined in part by, sheet metal layer 205, and
channels are provided in foam panels 214 (not shown in FIG. 9) to
accommodate the fork tubes. Fork tubes 360a, and 360b are of
sufficient length to span the distance between second longitudinal
floor edge 119 and interior edge 301a of floor portion 300a, and
thus present rectangular apertures 362 at each of these two edges.
In this regard, cut-outs (not visible) are provided in the fourth
footing beam 320 adjacent second longitudinal floor edge 119, and,
as shown in FIG. 9B, in the reinforcing board 307 that is
positioned in floor portion 300a adjacent interior edge 301a, to
permit fork tubes 360a, 360b to pass through footing beam 320 and
reinforcing board 307. Likewise, cut-outs (not visible) are
provided in I-beam end cap 221 (e.g., shown in FIG. 10) positioned
adjacent second longitudinal floor edge 119, and in I-beam
interlock 251 (e.g., shown in FIGS. 14 and 21A) positioned adjacent
interior edge 301a, to permit fork tubes 360a, 360b to pass through
that I-beam end cap 221 and I-beam interlock 251.
[0081] Referring still to FIGS. 9A-B, there is provided a fork tube
plate 361a positioned against fourth footing beam 320, and there is
provided a fork tube plate 361b positioned against fourth footing
beam 320. Fork tube plate 361a approximately spans the longitudinal
distance between I-beam 326a and fork tube 360a, and extends beyond
fork tube 360a in the longitudinal direction toward first
transverse floor edge 120. Similarly, fork tube plate 361b
approximately spans the longitudinal distance between I-beam 326a
and fork tube 360b, and extends beyond fork tube 360b in the
longitudinal direction toward second transverse floor edge 118.
[0082] In like manner, there is provided a fork tube plate 361c
(visible in FIG. 9A), which is positioned against the reinforcing
board 307 within floor portion 300a that is adjacent interior edge
301a, and there is provided a fork tube plate 361d (visible in FIG.
9A), which is positioned against the reinforcing board 307 within
floor portion 300a that is adjacent interior edge 301a. Fork tube
plate 361c approximately spans the longitudinal distance between
I-beam 326a and fork tube 360a, and extends beyond fork tube 360a
in the longitudinal direction toward first transverse floor edge
120. Similarly, fork tube plate 361d approximately spans the
longitudinal distance between I-beam 326a and fork tube 360b, and
extends beyond fork tube 360b in the longitudinal direction toward
second transverse floor edge 118. Fork tube plates 361a, 361b, 361c
and 361d in the embodiment shown herein are made for example of
steel.
[0083] Fork tube plates 361a and 361b can be secured to fourth
footing beam 320 with adhesive and/or fasteners such as screws, and
fork tube plates 361c and 361d can be secured to the reinforcing
board 307 within floor portion 300a which is adjacent interior edge
301a with adhesive and/or fasteners such as screws. In addition,
fork tube plates 361a and 361c can be secured to fork tube 360a,
and fork tube plates 361b and 361d can be secured to fork tube
360b, in each case utilizing for example fasteners or welding.
[0084] The employment of fork tubes 360a, 360b in the movement of
shipping module 100 is described below.
Roof Component (400)
[0085] Typically, structure 150 will utilize one roof component
400; thus roof component 400 generally is the full roof of
structure 150.
[0086] A. General Description
[0087] Roof component 400 has a generally rectangular perimeter.
FIGS. 1, 4 and 5 depict roof component 400 in accordance with the
present inventions. The perimeter of roof component 400 is defined
by first longitudinal roof edge 406, first transverse roof edge
408, second longitudinal roof edge 416 and second transverse roof
edge 410. In particular, (a) first longitudinal roof edge 406, (b)
first transverse roof edge 408, (c) second longitudinal roof edge
416 and (d) second transverse roof edge 410 of roof component 400
generally coincide with (i.e., overlie) (w) first longitudinal edge
106, (x) first transverse edge 108, (y) second longitudinal edge
116 and (z) second transverse edge 110, respectively, of structure
150.
[0088] The length and width of roof component 400 can vary in
accordance with design preference. In the particular embodiment of
structure 150 depicted in FIGS. 1, 4 and 5, the length and width of
roof component 400 approximates the length and width of floor
component 300.
[0089] Roof component 400 and its constituent elements are
generally designed and dimensioned in thickness and in other
respects to accommodate the particular loads to which roof
component 400 may be subject. It is preferred that roof component
400 utilize a multi-layered, laminate design, such as that
described in connection with FIG. 7. In the embodiment shown in
FIGS. 4 and 5, the top-most surface of roof component 400 comprises
sheet metal layer 205 of first structural layer 210, with sheet
metal layer 205 being 24 gauge galvanized steel approximately
0.022-0.028 inch thick. Below sheet metal layer 205 there are
provided foam panels 214 of foam panel layer 213, with foam panels
214 in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 being EPS foam for
example approximately 7.125 inches thick. Below foam panel layer
213 there is provided sheet metal layer 216 of second structural
layer 215, with sheet metal layer 216 being 24 gauge galvanized
steel approximately 0.022-0.028 inch thick. Below sheet metal layer
216 of second structural layer 215, there are provided building
panels 219 of protective layer 218, with building panels 219 being
MgO board approximately 0.25 inch (6 mm) thick.
[0090] The perimeter of roof component 400 is generally provided
with exterior edge reinforcement. As exterior edge reinforcement
for the embodiment of roof component 400 shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, a
first shoulder beam 435 (visible edge-on in FIG. 4) is positioned
at the first longitudinal roof edge 406 of roof component 400, a
second shoulder beam 435 (visible edge-on in FIG. 5) is positioned
at the first transverse roof edge 408 of roof component 400, a
third shoulder beam 435 (visible edge-on in FIG. 5) is positioned
at the second transverse roof edge 410 of roof component 400, and a
fourth shoulder beam 435 (visible edge-on in FIG. 4) is positioned
at the second longitudinal roof edge 416 of roof component 400. In
addition to protecting the exterior edges of foam panel material,
the exterior edge reinforcement provided by shoulder beams 435
assists in resisting vertical loads and transferring such loads to
lower floors through underlying wall components 200 supporting roof
component 400, and then to the foundation of the structure 150.
Such exterior edge reinforcement can also provide a region for
fastening like regions of abutting enclosure components 155
(underlying and any overlying). Shoulder beams 435 of roof
component 400 can be fabricated from laminated strand lumber board
7.125'' deep and 1.5'' thick.
[0091] B. Roof Partitioning
[0092] The roof component 400 of structure 150 is partitioned into
roof portions 400a, 400b and 400c. FIG. 1 shows roof portions 400a,
400b and 400c in perspective view, and FIG. 4 shows roof portions
400a, 400b and 400c in section view, edge-on.
[0093] Each of the roof portions 400a, 400b and 400c is a planar
generally rectangular structure, with roof portion 400a adjoining
roof portion 400b, and roof portion 400b adjoining roof portion
400c. Interior edge 412c of roof component 400c abuts a first
interior edge 412b of roof component 400b, as shown in FIG. 4. For
interior edge reinforcement, a reinforcing board 437 is positioned
adjacent interior edge 412c, and a reinforcing board 437 is
positioned against first interior edge 412b. Interior edge 412a of
roof portion 400a abuts a second interior edge 412b of roof portion
400b, as shown in FIG. 4. For interior edge reinforcement, a
reinforcing board 437 is positioned adjacent interior edge 412a,
and a reinforcing board 437 is positioned against second interior
edge 412b. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 through 5, the
interior edge reinforcement provided by reinforcing boards 437 of
roof component 400 is laminated strand lumber board 7.125'' deep
and 1.5'' thick.
[0094] In the shipping module 100 shown in FIG. 3, roof portions
400a, 400b and 400c preferably are accordion folded (stacked), with
roof component 400b stacked on top of roof component 400a, and roof
component 400c stacked on top of the roof component 400b. Referring
to structure 150 shown in FIG. 4, roof portion 400a is fixed in
position relative to first wall portion 200s-1, third wall portion
200s-3 and wall component 200R. Thus to realize the accordion
folded configuration shown in FIG. 3 roof portion 400a is joined to
roof portion 400b with hinge structures provided between interior
edge 412a of roof portion 400a and second interior edge 412b of
roof portion 400b. Such hinge structures are adapted to permit roof
portion 400b to pivot through up to one hundred and eighty degrees
(180.degree.) of arc about a horizontal axis 405a, located
proximate the top of roof component 400 and shown in FIG. 4,
between the roof fully folded position shown in FIG. 3, where roof
portion 400b lies stacked flat against roof portion 400a, and the
fully unfolded position shown in FIG. 4. In turn, roof portion 400b
is joined to roof portion 400c with hinge structures provided
between first interior edge 412b of roof portion 400b and interior
edge 412c of roof portion 400c. Such hinge structures are adapted
to permit roof portion 400c to pivot through up to one hundred and
eighty degrees (180.degree.) of arc about a horizontal axis 405b,
located proximate the bottom of roof component 400 and shown in
FIG. 4, between the folded position shown in FIG. 3, where roof
portion 400c lies stacked flat against roof portion 400b (when roof
portion 400b is positioned to lie flat against roof portion 400a),
and the fully unfolded position shown in FIG. 4.
[0095] Particular embodiments of structural members, which also
incorporate hinge structures suitable for joining roof portion 400a
to roof portion 400b, and for joining roof portion 400b to roof
portion 400c, are described in in U.S. Nonprovisional patent
application Ser. No. 17/527,520 entitled "Folding Beam Systems",
filed Nov. 16, 2021 and having the same inventors as this
disclosure. The contents of that U.S. Nonprovisional patent
application Ser. No. 17/527,520 entitled "Folding Beam Systems",
filed Nov. 16, 2021 and having the same inventors as this
disclosure, is incorporated by reference as if fully set forth
herein, particularly the description of the load transfer
components set forth for example in 0104-0126 and in FIGS. 15A-24A
thereof, as well as the description of the associated end hinge
assemblies set forth for example in 0127-0132 and in FIGS. 24B and
25A-25D thereof.
Enclosure Component Sealing Systems
[0096] Structure 150 can utilize the enclosure component sealing
systems described below to limit or prevent the ingress of rain
water, noise and outside air into the interior of structure
150.
[0097] A. General Description
[0098] The enclosure component sealing systems for structure 150
utilize the sealing structures described below. Except for I-beam
end cap 221, which functions to seal the edges of select enclosure
components 155, the enclosure component sealing systems comprise in
general terms two enclosure component sealing structures, paired in
in pressing contact in different combinations, to seal the
junctions between different regions of the enclosure components 155
found in structure 150. These junctions consist of either two
interior edges of adjacent enclosure component portions, positioned
edge-to-edge when structure 150 is unfolded, or an exterior edge of
an enclosure component 155 which abuts an interior surface of
another enclosure component 155. Where an enclosure component
sealing structure is positioned on an interior or exterior edge of
an enclosure component 155, there can respectively be provided
interior edge reinforcement or exterior edge reinforcement between
the sealing structure and the respective interior or exterior edge
of the foam panel layer 213 in the case where the multi-layered,
laminate design depicted in FIG. 7 is utilized (such that the
enclosure component sealing structure is positioned proximate to
the interior or exterior edge, as the case may be, of the foam
panel layer 213). The specific enclosure component sealing
structures described below are I-beam end cap 221; wall vertical
interlock 245; wall end cap 246; I-beam interlock A 250; I-beam
interlock B 251; floor top plate 252; roof bottom plate 255; floor
top interlock 261; wall end interlock A 262; and wall end interlock
B 263. Excepting I-beam end cap 221, each of the foregoing
enclosure component sealing structures utilizes either two or more
compression seals 230, or one shear seal 260, which are also
described below. Exemplary placements of the enclosure component
sealing structures described herein are found in Subsections B.
through J. below and also in the Section below entitled "Enclosure
Component Sealing Structure Exemplary Placements".
[0099] The current inventions include two closure boards, namely
perimeter board 310 and roof skirt board 280. These closure boards,
which are described below, are utilized in conjunction with I-beam
end cap 221 to provide additional sealing, as well as to realize
additional benefits.
[0100] B. I-Beam End Cap (221)
[0101] I-beam end cap 221, shown in cross-section in FIG. 10, is a
rigid elongate member that is fastened to the periphery of select
enclosure components 155, preferably the exterior edges of floor
component 300 and roof component 400. I-beam end cap 221
constitutes an edge seal that performs a sealing function against
water ingress into and environmental exposure of the edge of the
enclosure component 155 to which it is secured, and imparts impact
resistance to that edge.
[0102] FIG. 10 shows an exemplary installation of I-beam end cap
221 secured to the edge of a schematic representation of floor
portion 300a. In particular, I-beam end cap 221 has an elongate
seal plate 223 with seal plate 223 having an elongate interior face
226 and an opposing elongate planar exterior face 227. I-beam end
cap 221 has a length and width the same, or substantially the same,
as the length and width of the exterior edge of floor portion 300a,
so as to cover the entirety, or substantially the entirety, of the
exterior edge of floor portion 300a.
[0103] At the mid-point of the interior face 226 of seal plate 223,
there is provided an elongate key 222, which is rectangular in
cross section (as shown in FIG. 10), and has a length the same, or
substantially the same, as the length of I-beam end cap 221. Key
222 is received in a corresponding slot formed in the exterior edge
reinforcement positioned on the exterior edge of the enclosure
component 155 to which I-beam end cap 221 is secured. Thus for
example, FIG. 9 depicts key 222 of an I-beam end cap 221 received
in slot 422 of a shoulder beam 435 of roof portion 400a. Each of
the top and bottom edges of I-beam end cap 221 define locating
slots 229. In the case where the enclosure component 155 utilizes
the enclosure component laminate design shown in FIG. 7, locating
slots 229 receive the edge portions 207 of metal sheets 206 and 217
(of sheet metal layers 205 and 216 respectively), bent down at a
ninety degree (90.degree.) angle, as shown in FIG. 9.
[0104] Still referring to FIG. 10, the exterior face 227 of seal
plate 223 of I-beam end cap 221 includes an elongate accessory slot
224, which is rectangular in cross section and has a length the
same, or substantially the same, as the length of the exterior face
227 of I-beam end cap 221. The exterior face 227 further includes a
plurality of elongate fastener locating grooves 225, each of which
has a length the same, or substantially the same, as the length of
seal plate 223. I-beam end cap 221 can be secured to an exterior
edge of an enclosure component 155, such as the roof portion 400a
shown in FIG. 9 and the floor portion 300a shown in FIG. 10, for
example by adhesive applied to interior face 226, or by fasteners,
such as screw or nail fasteners, spaced apart along the length of
I-beam end cap 221 and driven through the exterior face 227, or by
utilizing a combination of adhesive and fasteners. Locating grooves
225 assist in accurate positioning of such fasteners.
[0105] C. Compression Seal (230)
[0106] A number of the enclosure component sealing systems
described herein and utilized in structure 150 include a
compression seal system. An element of that compression seal system
is a compression seal 230.
[0107] Compression seal 230, which is shown in cross-section in
FIG. 11A, is an elongate member having in cross-section an elongate
base 231 with an elongate arched portion 232 that is flanked by two
elongate winglets 233. At the intersection of the arched portion
232 of base 231 and each of the winglets 233, there are provided
two opposed elongate seal walls 234, joined to and extending away
from base 231 in a diverging relationship at a divergence angle
.theta., where .theta.<180.degree., for example
.theta.<90.degree. or in the range of
40.degree.<.theta.<50.degree.. It is most preferred that 0 be
the same, or nearly so, as the divergence angle c of the slot walls
244 described below. Thus as shown in FIG. 11A, the ends of the
seal walls 234 distal from base 231 are further apart than the ends
of the seal walls proximate to base 231.
[0108] At the ends of the seal walls 234 distal from base 231, each
seal wall 234 is joined to an elongate arcuate buttress 235. The
end of each arcuate buttress 235, distal from the seal wall 234 to
which it is joined, is in turn joined to a respective planar
elongate seal surface 236; thus there are two planar seal surfaces
236 in compression seal 230. The planar seal surfaces 236 extend
away from the seal walls 234 in a converging relationship at a
convergence angle .delta., where .delta.<180.degree., for
example 90.degree.. Thus the ends of seal surfaces 236 distal from
arcuate buttresses 235 are closer together than the ends of seal
surfaces 236 proximate to arcuate buttresses 235. The ends of seal
surfaces 236 distal from arcuate buttresses 235 are joined by an
elongate seal closure 237. The base 231, seal walls 234, arcuate
buttresses 235, seal surfaces 236 and seal closure 237 thereby
define a hollow elongate seal chamber 238, as shown in FIG. 11A.
Seal closure 237 is curved in shape toward seal chamber 238, such
as to assume a cupped appearance.
[0109] Seal 230 is intended to be received in an elongate seal slot
240, shown for example in FIG. 11B. Slot 240 in general has a
dovetail shape, with an elongate planar floor 241 flanked by two
elongate lateral grooves 242, and with an elongate planar slot wall
244 abutting and extending from each groove 242 toward an elongate
shoulder 243 at the surface of the slot 240. Thus there are two
opposed shoulders 243 in seal slot 240. The planar slot walls 244
extend away from grooves 242 in a diverging relationship at a
divergence angle .epsilon., where .epsilon.<180.degree. (for
example .epsilon.<90.degree. or in the range of
40.degree.<.epsilon.<50.degree.), such that the edges of slot
walls 244 coincident with shoulders 243 are further apart than the
edges of slot walls 244 abutting grooves 242. Compression seal 230
is dimensioned to snugly fit within slot 240, as shown in FIG. 11B,
such that winglets 233 are received in grooves 242 and the arched
portion 232 of base 231 is compressed sufficiently to provide a
resilient force that urges winglets 233 into grooves 242 and causes
seal 230 to be retained in its proper position in slot 240 during
fabrication and following fabrication of the enclosure component
155.
[0110] When two enclosure components 155 on which are mounted two
paired enclosure component sealing structures, one of which bears a
compression seal 230, are appropriately positioned and pressed
together, compression seal 230 will be squeezed against the planar
exterior face 227 of the opposed seal plate 223, which causes seal
closure 237 and arcuate buttresses 235 to be urged into seal
chamber 238. This permits the two planar exterior faces 227 of the
pressed-together seal plates 223 of the paired sealing structures
to come into full contact. At the same time, arcuate buttresses 235
rotate down and seal surfaces 236 are urged into a generally
coplanar relationship (with arcuate buttresses 238 functioning as
hinges) with the opposing planar exterior face 227 pressing against
it, to create two lines of sealing.
[0111] Compression seal 230 can be fabricated from a resilient
material, such as rubber or plastic, for example polyurethane.
Particular embodiments of enclosure component sealing structures
utilizing the foregoing compression sealing system are described
below.
[0112] D. Wall Vertical Interlock (245), Wall End Cap (246) Sealing
System
[0113] FIG. 12 depicts in exploded form the junction between a wall
vertical interlock 245 and a wall end cap 246. The particular
junction is shown for illustrative purposes between wall portion
200s-1 and 200s-2, with wall vertical interlock 245 positioned on
the interior vertical edge of wall portion 200s-2 (interior
vertical edge 192-2 shown in FIG. 2) and wall end cap 246
positioned on the interior vertical edge of wall portion 200s-1
(interior vertical edge 192-1 shown in FIG. 2). In structure 150,
wall vertical interlock 245 and wall end cap 246 shown in FIG. 12
are vertically-oriented.
[0114] In particular, wall vertical interlock 245 is a rigid
elongate member that has an elongate seal plate 223 with an
elongate interior face 226 and an opposing elongate planar exterior
face 227. The exterior face 227 preferably is hard and smooth to
provide a good sealing surface. Seal plate 223 has a length and
width the same, or substantially the same, as the length and width
of the interior edge of wall portion 200s-2, so as to cover the
entirety, or substantially the entirety, of that interior edge of
wall portion 200s-2.
[0115] As shown in FIG. 12, at the mid-point of the interior face
226 of wall vertical interlock 245 there is provided an elongate
key 222, which is rectangular in cross section has a length the
same, or substantially the same, as the length of seal plate 223.
Key 222 is received in a corresponding elongate slot formed in the
interior edge reinforcement positioned on the interior vertical
edge of wall portion 200s-2, to which wall vertical interlock 245
is secured. Each of the top and bottom edges of wall vertical
interlock 245 define elongate locating slots 229 for receiving the
edge portions of sheet metal layers 205 and 216, when bent down at
a ninety degree (90.degree.) angle. In addition, the edge of one of
the slots 229 abutting the interior face 226 of wall vertical
interlock 245 is terminated an inset distance "I" from the opposing
edge of that slot, where I is the thickness of the protective layer
218, such as magnesium oxide (MgO) board.
[0116] Still referring to FIG. 12, at the mid-point of the exterior
face 227 of seal plate 223 of wall vertical interlock 245 there is
provided an elongate interlock slot 228, which is rectangular in
cross-section and has a length the same, or substantially the same,
as the length of the exterior face 227 of wall vertical interlock
245. Two elongate seal slots 240 are defined on the exterior face
227 of wall vertical interlock 245, one above interlock slot 228
and the other below interlock slot 228, as shown in FIG. 12. Each
slot 240 has a length the same, or substantially the same, as the
length of wall vertical interlock 245.
[0117] Wall vertical interlock 245 can be secured to the vertical
edge of wall portion 200s-2 shown in FIG. 12 for example by
adhesive applied to interior face 226, or by fasteners, such as
screw or nail fasteners, spaced apart along the length of wall
vertical interlock 245 and driven through the exterior face 227, or
by utilizing a combination of adhesive and fasteners.
[0118] FIG. 12 additionally depicts a wall end cap 246. Wall end
cap 246 shown in FIG. 12 is a rigid elongate member that is defined
by an elongate seal plate 223 having an elongate interior face 226
and an opposing elongate planar exterior face 227. The exterior
face 227 preferably is hard and smooth to provide a good sealing
surface. Seal plate 223 has a length and width the same, or
substantially the same, as the length and width of the exterior
edge of wall portion 200s-1, so as to cover the entirety, or
substantially the entirety, of the vertical edge of wall portion
200s-1 shown in in FIG. 12.
[0119] At the mid-point of the interior face 226 of wall end cap
246 show in in FIG. 12 there is provided an elongate key 222, which
is rectangular in cross-section and has a length the same, or
substantially the same, as the length of seal plate 223. Key 222 of
wall end cap 246 is received in a corresponding elongate slot
formed in the interior edge reinforcement, positioned on the
interior vertical edge of wall portion 200s-1, to which wall end
cap 246 is secured. Each of the top and bottom edges of wall end
cap 246 define elongate locating slots 229 for receiving the edge
portions of sheet metal layers 205 and 216, when bent down at a
ninety degree (90.degree.) angle. In addition, the edge of one of
the slots 229 abutting the interior face 226 of wall end cap 246 is
terminated an inset distance "I" from the opposing edge of that
slot, where I is the thickness of the protective layer 218, such as
magnesium oxide (MgO) board.
[0120] Wall end cap 246 can be secured to the vertical edge of wall
portion 200s-1 shown in FIG. 12 for example by adhesive applied to
interior face 226, or by fasteners, such as screw or nail
fasteners, spaced apart along the length of wall end cap 246 and
driven through the exterior face 227, or by utilizing a combination
of adhesive and fasteners.
[0121] In FIG. 12, wall vertical interlock 245 mates with wall end
cap 246. For this purpose, at the mid-point of the exterior face
227 of seal plate 223 of wall end cap 246 there is provided an
elongate interlock key 247, which is rectangular in cross-section
and has a length the same, or substantially the same, as the length
of the exterior face 227 of wall end cap 246. Interlock key 247
mates with interlock slot 228 when wall vertical interlock 245 and
wall end cap 246 are pressed together. Additionally, the two edges
of wall end cap 246 are provided with elongate coupling ridges 248
which mate with elongate coupling insets 249 located at the edges
of wall vertical interlock 245. Coupling ridges 248 and coupling
insets 249 can have the same, or approximately the same, lengths as
wall end cap 246 and wall vertical interlock 245 respectively.
[0122] Prior to mating wall vertical interlock 245 with wall end
cap 246, a compression seal 230 is placed in each of the two seal
slots 240 of wall vertical interlock 245, with each seal 230 having
the same, or approximately the same, length as the slot 240 in
which it is inserted. When wall vertical interlock 245 with wall
end cap 246 are pressed together in a mating relationship, the two
compression seals 230 are deformed in the manner described
previously to provide four lines of sealing between wall vertical
interlock 245 and wall end cap 246.
[0123] E. I-Beam Interlock A (250), I-Beam Interlock B (251)
Sealing System
[0124] FIG. 14 depicts in exploded form the junction between an
I-beam interlock A 250 and an I-beam interlock B 251, each shown in
cross-section. The particular junction is shown for illustrative
purposes between roof portion 400b and roof portion 400c, with
I-beam interlock A 250 positioned on the interior edge 412c of roof
portion 400c, and with I-beam interlock B 251 positioned on first
interior edge 412b of roof portion 400b. In structure 150, I-beam
interlock A 250 and I-beam interlock B 251 shown in FIG. 14 are
horizontally oriented.
[0125] In particular, I-beam interlock A 250 is a rigid elongate
member that is defined by an elongate seal plate 223 having an
elongate interior face 226 and an opposing elongate planar exterior
face 227. The exterior face 227 preferably is hard and smooth to
provide a good sealing surface. Seal plate 223 has a length and
width the same, or substantially the same, as the length and width
of the interior edge 412c of roof portion 400c shown in FIG. 14, so
as to cover the entirety, or substantially the entirety, of that
interior edge.
[0126] As shown in FIG. 14, at the mid-point of the interior face
226 of I-beam interlock A 250 there is provided an elongate key
222, which has a rectangular cross-section and a length the same,
or substantially the same, as the length of I-beam interlock A 250.
Key 222 is received in a corresponding elongate slot formed in the
interior edge reinforcement positioned on the horizontal edge of
roof portion 400c, to which I-beam interlock A 250 is secured. Each
of the top and bottom edges of I-beam interlock A 250 define
elongate locating slots 229 for receiving the edge portions of
sheet metal layers 205 and 216, bent down at a ninety degree)
(90.degree. angle. In addition, the edge of one of the slots 229
abutting the interior face 226 of I-beam interlock A 250 is
terminated an inset distance "I" from the opposing edge of that
slot, where I is the thickness of the protective layer 218, such as
magnesium oxide (MgO) board.
[0127] Still referring to FIG. 14, in the lower half of the
exterior face 227 of seal plate 223 of I-beam interlock A 250 there
is provided an elongate interlock slot 228, which has a rectangular
cross-section and a length the same, or substantially the same, as
the length of the exterior face 227 of I-beam interlock A 250.
Three elongate seal slots 240 are defined on the exterior face 227
of I-beam interlock A 250, two above interlock slot 228 and one
below interlock slot 228, as shown in FIG. 14. Each seal slot 240
has a length the same, or substantially the same, as the length of
I-beam interlock A 250.
[0128] I-beam interlock A 250 can be secured to the interior edge
412c of roof portion 400c shown in FIG. 14 for example by adhesive
applied to interior face 226, or by fasteners, such as screw or
nail fasteners, spaced apart along the length of I-beam interlock A
250 and driven through the exterior face 227, or by utilizing a
combination of adhesive and fasteners.
[0129] FIG. 14 additionally depicts an I-beam interlock B 251.
I-beam interlock B 251 is a rigid elongate member that is defined
by an elongate seal plate 223 having an elongate interior face 226
and an opposing elongate planar exterior face 227. The exterior
face 227 preferably is hard and smooth to provide a good sealing
surface. Seal plate 223 has a length and width the same, or
substantially the same, as the length and width of the first
interior edge 412b of roof portion 400b, so as to cover the
entirety, or substantially the entirety, of that interior edge.
[0130] At the mid-point of the interior face 226 of I-beam
interlock B 251 shown in in FIG. 14 there is provided an elongate
key 222, which has a rectangular cross-section and a length the
same, or substantially the same, as the length of I-beam interlock
B 251. Key 222 of I-beam interlock B 251 is received in a
corresponding elongate slot formed in the exterior edge
reinforcement positioned on first interior edge 412b of roof
portion 400b, to which I-beam interlock B 251 is secured. Each of
the top and bottom edges of I-beam interlock B 251 define elongate
locating slots 229 for receiving the edge portions of sheet metal
layers 205 and 216, bent down at a ninety degree (90.degree.)
angle. In addition, the edge of one of the slots 229 abutting the
interior face 226 of wall end cap 246 is terminated an inset
distance "I" from the opposing edge of that slot, where I is the
thickness of the protective layer 218, such as magnesium oxide
(MgO) board.
[0131] I-beam interlock B 251 can be secured to the first interior
edge 412b of roof portion 400b for example by adhesive applied to
interior face 226, or by fasteners, such as screw or nail
fasteners, spaced apart along the length of I-beam interlock B 251
and driven through the exterior face 227, or by utilizing a
combination of adhesive and fasteners.
[0132] In FIG. 14, I-beam interlock A 250 mates with I-beam
interlock B 251. For this purpose, in the lower half of the
exterior face 227 of seal plate 223 of I-beam interlock B 251 there
is provided an elongate interlock key 247, which has a rectangular
cross-section and a length the same, or substantially the same, as
the length of I-beam interlock B 251. Interlock key 247 mates with
interlock slot 228 when I-beam interlock A 250 and I-beam interlock
B 251 are pressed together. Additionally, the exterior edges of
I-beam interlock B 251 are provided with elongate coupling ridges
248 which mate with elongate coupling insets 249 located at the
exterior edges of I-beam interlock A 250. Coupling ridges 248 and
coupling insets 249 can have the same, or approximately the same,
lengths as I-beam interlock A 250 and I-beam interlock B 251
respectively.
[0133] Prior to mating I-beam interlock A 250 with I-beam interlock
B 251, a compression seal 230 is placed in each of the three seal
slots 240 of I-beam interlock A 250, with each seal 230 having the
same, or approximately the same, length as the slot 240 in which it
is inserted. When I-beam interlock A 250 and I-beam interlock B 251
are pressed together in a mating relationship, the three
compression seals 230 are deformed in the manner described
previously to provide six lines of sealing between I-beam interlock
A 250 and I-beam interlock B 251.
[0134] F. Floor Top Plate (252), Wall End Cap (246) Sealing
System
[0135] FIG. 15 depicts in exploded form the junction between a
floor top plate 252 and a wall end cap 246, each shown in
cross-section. The particular junction is shown for illustrative
purposes between wall component 200R and floor portion 300a, with
floor top plate 252 positioned along the upper surface of floor
portion 300a adjacent second longitudinal floor edge 119, and with
wall end cap 246 positioned on the bottom edge of wall component
200R. In structure 150, wall 200R shown in FIG. 15 is vertically
oriented and floor portion 300a is horizontally oriented.
[0136] In particular, floor top plate 252 in FIG. 15 is a rigid
elongate member that has an elongate seal plate 223 with an
elongate interior face 226 and an opposing elongate planar exterior
face 227. The exterior face 227 preferably is hard and smooth to
provide a good sealing surface. Seal plate 223 has a length the
same, or substantially the same, as the length of second
longitudinal floor edge 119, so as to cover the top edge of floor
portion 300a proximate to second longitudinal floor edge 119. Seal
plate 223 of floor top plate 252 has a width the same, or
substantially the same, as the width of wall component 200R. The
floor top plate 252 preferably has a thickness "J" sufficient to
accommodate the thickness of any protective layer 218 and/or
flooring used to surface floor portion 300a, such as stone, wood or
carpeting.
[0137] As shown in FIG. 15, at the exterior edge of the interior
face 226 of floor top plate 252, proximate to second longitudinal
floor edge 119, there is provided a series of elongate stepped
locating ridges 254. These stepped locating ridges, which have a
length the same, or substantially the same, as the length of floor
top plate 252, mesh with the corresponding stepped locating ridges
253 shown on I-beam end cap 221 depicted in FIG. 10 and with dashed
lines in FIG. 15.
[0138] Still referring to FIG. 15, at the mid-point of the exterior
face 227 of seal plate 223 of floor top plate 252 there is provided
an elongate interlock slot 228, which has a rectangular
cross-section and a length the same, or substantially the same, as
the length of floor top plate 252. Two elongate seal slots 240 are
defined on the exterior face 227 of floor top plate 252, one on
each side of interlock slot 228, as shown in FIG. 15. Each slot 240
has a length the same, or substantially the same, as the length of
floor top plate 252.
[0139] Floor top plate 252 can be secured to the top edge of floor
portion 300a proximate to second longitudinal floor edge 119 shown
in FIG. 15 for example by adhesive applied to interior face 226, or
by fasteners, such as screw or nail fasteners, spaced apart along
the length of floor top plate 252 and driven through the exterior
face 227, or by utilizing a combination of adhesive and
fasteners.
[0140] FIG. 15 additionally depicts a wall end cap 246 positioned
along the bottom edge of wall component 200R. The design of wall
end cap 246 was previously described in connection with FIG. 12.
The seal plate 223 of wall end cap 246 shown in FIG. 15 has a
length and width the same, or substantially the same, as the length
and width of the bottom edge of wall component 200R, so as to cover
the entirety, or substantially the entirety, of the bottom edge of
wall component 200R shown in in FIG. 15.
[0141] Wall end cap 246 can be secured to the bottom edge of wall
component 200R shown in FIG. 15 for example by adhesive applied to
interior face 226, or by fasteners, such as screw or nail
fasteners, spaced apart along the length of wall end cap 246 and
driven through the exterior face 227, or by utilizing a combination
of adhesive and fasteners.
[0142] In FIG. 15, floor top plate 252 mates with wall end cap 246.
For this purpose, the interlock key 247 of wall end cap 246 is
provided with a length the same, or substantially the same, as the
length of the exterior face 227 of floor top plate 252. That
interlock key 247 mates with the interlock slot 228 of floor top
plate 252 when floor top plate 252 and wall end cap 246 are pressed
together, with the elongate coupling ridges 248 of wall end cap 246
mating with the elongate coupling insets 249 of floor top plate
252. Coupling ridges 248 and coupling insets 249 can have the same,
or approximately the same, lengths as wall end cap 246 and floor
top plate 252 respectively.
[0143] Prior to mating wall end cap 246 and floor top plate 252, a
compression seal 230 is placed in each of the two seal slots 240 of
floor top plate 252, with each seal 230 having the same, or
approximately the same, length as the seal slot 240 in which it is
inserted. When wall vertical interlock 245 and wall end cap 246 are
pressed together in a mating relationship, the two compression
seals 230 are deformed in the manner described previously to
provide four lines of sealing between wall end cap 246 and floor
top plate 252.
[0144] G. Roof Bottom Plate (255), Wall End Cap (246) Sealing
System
[0145] FIG. 13 depicts in exploded form the junction between a roof
bottom plate 255 and a wall end cap 246, each shown in
cross-section. The particular junction shown for illustrative
purposes is between wall component 200R and roof portion 400a, with
roof bottom plate 255 positioned along the lower face of roof
portion 400a adjacent second longitudinal roof edge 416, and wall
end cap 246 positioned on the top edge of wall component 200R. In
structure 150, wall component 200R in FIG. 13 is vertically
oriented and roof portion 400a is horizontally oriented.
[0146] The design of roof bottom plate 255 shown in FIG. 13 is
substantially the same as floor top plate 252 shown in FIG. 15,
except that roof bottom plate 255 is thinner because it need not
accommodate the thickness of any flooring; for example, roof bottom
plate 255 can have a thickness "I", equal to the thickness of an
abutting protective layer 218, such as MgO board. Roof bottom plate
255 in FIG. 13 is a rigid elongate member that has an elongate seal
plate 223 with an elongate planar interior face 226 and an opposing
elongate planar exterior face 227. The exterior face 227 preferably
is hard and smooth to provide a good sealing surface. Seal plate
223 of roof bottom plate 255 has a length the same, or
substantially the same, as the length of second longitudinal roof
edge 416, so as to cover the bottom edge of roof portion 400a
proximate to second longitudinal roof edge 416. Seal plate 223 of
roof bottom plate 255 has a width the same, or substantially the
same, as the width of wall component 200R.
[0147] As shown in FIG. 13, at the exterior edge of the interior
face 226 of roof bottom plate 255, proximate to second longitudinal
roof edge 416, there is provided a series of elongate stepped
locating ridges 254. These stepped locating ridges, which have a
length the same, or substantially the same, as the length of roof
bottom plate 255, mesh with the corresponding stepped locating
ridges 253 of wall end cap 221 depicted in FIG. 10 and with dashed
lines in FIG. 13, and positioned at the exterior edge of roof
portion 400a.
[0148] Still referring to FIG. 13, at the mid-point of the exterior
face 227 of seal plate 223 of roof bottom plate 255 there is
provided an elongate interlock slot 228, which has a rectangular
cross-section and a length the same, or substantially the same, as
the length of roof bottom plate 255. There are two elongate seal
slots 240 defined on the exterior face 227 of roof bottom plate
255, one on each side of interlock slot 228, as shown in FIG. 13.
Each seal slot 240 has a length the same, or substantially the
same, as the length of roof bottom plate 255.
[0149] Roof bottom plate 255 can be secured to the bottom face of
roof portion 400a shown in FIG. 13 for example by adhesive applied
to interior face 226, or by fasteners, such as screw or nail
fasteners, spaced apart along the length of roof bottom plate 255
and driven through the exterior face 227, or by utilizing a
combination of adhesive and fasteners.
[0150] FIG. 13 additionally depicts a wall end cap 246 positioned
along the top edge of wall component 200R. The design of wall end
cap 246 was previously described in connection with FIG. 12. The
seal plate 223 of wall end cap 246 shown in FIG. 13 has a length
and width the same, or substantially the same, as the length and
width of the top edge of wall component 200R, so as to cover the
entirety, or substantially the entirety, of the top edge of wall
component 200R. Wall end cap 246 can be fastened to that top edge
for example by adhesive applied to its interior face 226, or by
fasteners, such as screw or nail fasteners, spaced apart along the
length of wall end cap 246 and driven through its exterior face
227, or by utilizing a combination of adhesive and fasteners.
[0151] In FIG. 13, roof bottom plate 255 mates with wall end cap
246. For this purpose, the interlock key 247 of wall end cap 246 is
provided with a length the same, or substantially the same, as the
length of roof bottom plate 255. That interlock key 247 mates with
the interlock slot 228 of roof bottom plate 255 when roof bottom
plate 255 and wall end cap 246 are pressed together, with the
elongate coupling ridges 248 of wall end cap 246 mating with
elongate coupling insets 249 of roof bottom plate 255. Coupling
ridges 248 and coupling insets 249 can be the same, or
approximately the same, as the lengths of wall end cap 246 and roof
bottom plate 255 respectively.
[0152] Prior to mating wall end cap 246 and roof bottom plate 255,
a compression seal 230 is placed in each of the two seal slots 240
of roof bottom plate 255, with each seal 230 having the same, or
approximately the same, length as the slot 240 in which it is
inserted. When roof bottom plate 255 and wall end cap 246 are
pressed together in a mating relationship, the two compression
seals 230 are deformed in the manner described previously to
provide four lines of sealing between roof bottom plate 255 and
wall end cap 246.
[0153] H. Shear Seal (260)
[0154] A number of the enclosure component sealing systems
described herein and utilized in structure 150 include a shear seal
system. An element of that shear seal system is a shear seal
260.
[0155] Shear seal 260, which is shown in cross-section in FIG. 16A,
is an elongate member having a planar elongate base 231 flanked by
two elongate winglets 233. At the intersection of base 231 and each
of the winglets 233, there is provided two opposed elongate seal
walls 234 (individually referred to as seal walls 234A, 234B),
joined to and extending away from base 231 in a diverging
relationship at a divergence angle .lamda., where
.lamda.<180.degree., for example .lamda.<90.degree. or in the
range of 40.degree.<.lamda.<50.degree.. It is most preferred
that .lamda. be the same, or nearly so, as the divergence angle c
of the slot walls 244 shown in FIG. 11B. Thus as shown in FIG. 16A,
the ends of the seal walls 234 distal from base 231 are further
apart than the ends of the seal walls 234 proximate to base
231.
[0156] At the end of seal wall 234B distal from base 231, seal wall
234B is joined to an elongate seal closure 237, a planar surface
oriented at an upward angle .alpha. (relative to the planar
orientation of base 231) away from seal wall 234B in a direction
toward an elongate seal support 239, described below, with
.alpha.<90.degree.. A planar cantilevered seal surface 257 is
joined to the edge of seal closure 237 that is distal from seal
wall 234B, as shown in FIG. 16A.
[0157] At the end of seal wall 234A distal from base 231, seal wall
234A is joined to the elongate seal support 239. Proximate to seal
wall 234A, seal support 239 comprises an elongate planar region
oriented parallel to base 231. Distal from seal wall 234A, seal
support 239 comprises an elongate arcuate buttress region. The edge
of the arcuate buttress region of seal support 239, which is distal
from seal wall 234A, joins cantilevered seal surface 257 proximate
to the junction of cantilevered seal surface 257 and seal closure
237 to define a hollow seal chamber 238. Planar cantilevered seal
surface 257 is oriented at an upward angle .beta. away from the
junction of arcuate buttress 235 and seal closure 237 and
terminates at a free end 258, with .beta.<90.degree., for
example .beta.>.alpha..
[0158] Shear seal 260 is intended to be received in an elongate
seal slot 240, shown for example in FIG. 16B, which has the same
geometry as the seal slots 40 utilized to receive compression seals
230. Shear seal 260 is dimensioned to snugly fit within slot 240,
such that winglets 233 of seal 260 are received in grooves 242 of
slot 240. An exemplary placement of a shear seal 260 is depicted in
FIG. 16B, which shows a shear seal 260 placed within the slot 240
of a wall end interlock A 262, described further below. As can be
seen, when shear seal 260 is properly positioned in slot 240, both
seal wall 234A and seal wall 234B terminate below the level of
exterior face 227 of wall end interlock A 262, with seal wall 234A
(underlying planar cantilevered seal surface 257) terminating below
the level at which seal wall 234B terminates.
[0159] Shear seal 260 is preferably utilized where two enclosure
components 155 are laterally moved during unfolding, one over the
other. In such an instance, the two enclosure components 155 are
provided with paired enclosure component sealing structures, with
one enclosure component sealing structure mounted on one of the
enclosure components 155 (such as on an exterior edge), and the
other enclosure component sealing structure mounted on the other of
the enclosure component structures 155 (such as on an interior
face). Each of the paired enclosure component sealing structures
has a shear seal 260, with the two shear seals 260 being oppositely
oriented; that is to say, the cantilevered seal surface 257 of each
is oriented away from the cantilevered seal surface 257 of the
other, and each is oriented in the direction of relative movement.
Thus in the case of each of the two shear seals 260, the lateral
movement of one enclosure component 155, relative to the other, is
in the direction from seal wall 234B toward seal wall 234A. This
lateral movement flattens the cantilevered seal surface 257, as
well as the seal closure 237, and squeezes down each shear seal
260, such that its seal closure 237 and seal support 239 are urged
into seal chamber 238. This permits the opposing planar exterior
faces 227 of each of the two enclosure component sealing structures
to come into full contact. At the same time, the cantilevered seal
surface 257 and seal closure 237 of each shear seal 260 are urged
into a generally coplanar relationship, with the planar exterior
face 227 of the opposing enclosure component seal structure
pressing against them, to create an elongate area of sealing.
[0160] Shear seal 260 can be fabricated from a resilient material,
such as rubber or plastic, for example polyurethane. Particular
embodiments of enclosure component sealing structures utilizing the
foregoing compression sealing system are described below.
[0161] I. Wall End Interlock A (262), Floor Top Interlock (261)
Sealing System
[0162] FIG. 17 depicts in exploded form the junction between a
floor top interlock 261 and a wall end interlock A 262, each shown
in cross-section. The particular junction is shown for illustrative
purposes between wall portion 200s-2 and floor portion 300b, with
floor top interlock 261 positioned along the upper face of floor
portion 300b adjacent first transverse floor edge 120, and with
wall end interlock A 262 positioned on the bottom edge of wall
portion 200s-2. In structure 150, wall portion 200s-2 in FIG. 17 is
vertically oriented and floor portion 300b is horizontally
oriented.
[0163] In particular, floor top interlock 261 shown in FIG. 17 is a
rigid elongate member that has an elongate seal plate 223 with an
interior face 226 and an opposing planar exterior face 227. The
exterior face 227 preferably is hard and smooth to provide a good
sealing surface. Seal plate 223 has a length the same, or
substantially the same, as the dimension of floor portion 300b
coinciding with first transverse floor edge 120, so as to cover the
top edge of floor portion 300b proximate to first transverse floor
edge 120. Seal plate 223 of floor top interlock 261 has a width the
same, or substantially the same, as the width of wall portion
200s-2. The floor top interlock 261 preferably has a thickness "J"
at its interior edge, as shown in FIG. 17, sufficient to
accommodate the thickness of any protective layer 218 and/or
flooring used to surface floor portion 300b, such as stone, wood or
carpeting.
[0164] As shown in FIG. 17, at the exterior edge of the interior
face 226 of floor top interlock 261, adjacent first transverse
floor edge 120, there is provided a series of elongate stepped
locating ridges 254. These stepped locating ridges 254, which have
a length the same, or substantially the same, as the length of
floor top interlock 261, mesh with the corresponding stepped
locating ridges 253. shown on the wall end cap 221 depicted in FIG.
10. Such a wall end cap 221 is located at the exterior edge of wall
portion 300b, as indicated in FIG. 17 by dashed lines.
[0165] Still referring to FIG. 17, an elongate seal slot 240 is
defined on the exterior face 227 of floor top interlock 261,
proximate to the exterior edge of floor portion 300b (such exterior
edge coincides with first transverse floor edge 120). Seal slot 240
has a length the same, or substantially the same, as the length of
floor top interlock 261.
[0166] Floor top interlock 261 can be secured to the top edge of
floor portion 300b at first transverse floor edge 120 shown in FIG.
17 for example by adhesive applied to interior face 226, or by
fasteners, such as screw or nail fasteners, spaced apart along the
length of floor top interlock 261 and driven through the exterior
face 227, or by utilizing a combination of adhesive and
fasteners.
[0167] Wall end interlock A 262, also shown in FIG. 17, is a rigid
elongate member that has an elongate seal plate 223 with an
interior face 226 and an opposing exterior face 227. The exterior
face 227 preferably is hard and smooth to provide a good sealing
surface. The seal plate 223 of wall end interlock A 262 has a
length and width the same, or substantially the same, as the length
and width of the bottom edge of wall portion 200s-2, so as to cover
the entirety, or substantially the entirety, of the bottom edge of
wall portion 200s-2, as shown in in FIG. 17.
[0168] At the mid-point of the interior face 226 of seal plate 223
of wall end interlock A 262, there is provided an elongate key 222,
which has a rectangular cross section and a length the same, or
substantially the same, as the length of wall end interlock A 262.
Key 222 is received in a corresponding elongate slot formed in the
exterior edge reinforcement positioned on the bottom edge of the
wall portion 200s-2 to which wall end interlock A 262 is
secured.
[0169] Again referring to FIG. 17, an elongate seal slot 240 is
defined on the exterior face 227 of wall end interlock A 262,
toward the interior edge of wall end interlock A 262 (distal from
first transverse floor edge 120). This seal slot 240 has a length
the same, or substantially the same, as the length of wall end
interlock A 262. Additionally, each of the interior and exterior
edges of wall end interlock A 262 define locating slots 229. In the
case where the enclosure component 155, in this case wall portion
200s-2, utilizes the enclosure component laminate design shown in
FIG. 7, locating slots 229 receive the edge portions of sheet metal
layers 205 and 216, bent down at a ninety degree (90.degree.)
angle.
[0170] Wall end interlock A 262 can be fastened to the bottom edge
of wall portion 200s-2 for example by adhesive applied to its
interior face 226, or by fasteners, such as screw or nail
fasteners, spaced apart along the length of wall end interlock A
262 and driven through its exterior face 227, or by utilizing a
combination of adhesive and fasteners.
[0171] In FIG. 17, floor top interlock 261 mates with wall end
interlock A 262. Prior to mating, a shear seal 260 is placed in the
seal slot 240 of floor top interlock 261, and a shear seal 260 is
placed in the seal slot 240 of wall end interlock A 262. The shear
seals 260 placed in the seals slots 240 of floor top interlock 261
and wall end interlock A 262 each has the same, or approximately
the same, length as the slot 240 in which it is inserted.
[0172] Mating of floor top interlock 261 with wall end interlock A
262 occurs by the bottom edge of wall portion 200s-2 moving over
the top surface of floor portion 300b, from a folded position to an
unfolded position. Thus in the arrangement shown in FIG. 17, such
mating will correspond to a movement of wall portion 200s-2 from
the right-hand side of the figure toward the left, with wall end
interlock A 262 sliding over floor top interlock 261 until the
fully unfolded position is reached. In that fully unfolded
position, the shear seal 260 in floor top interlock 261, and
particularly its seal surface 257, will be in pressing contact with
the exterior face 227 of wall end interlock A 262; and the shear
seal 260 in wall end interlock A 262, and particularly its seal
surface 257, will be in pressing contact with the exterior face 227
of floor top interlock 261. Consistent with this movement, the
shear seal 260 placed in seal slot 240 of floor top interlock 261
is preferably oriented so that the free end 258 of its cantilevered
seal surface 257 is directed toward the exterior edge of floor top
interlock 261 (toward first transverse floor edge 120), and the
shear seal 260 placed in the seal slot 240 of wall end interlock A
262 is preferably oriented so that the free end 258 of its
cantilevered seal surface 257 is directed toward the interior edge
of wall end interlock A 262 (away from first transverse floor edge
120).
[0173] To facilitate mating, it is preferred that planar exterior
face 227 of floor top interlock 261 not be parallel to the interior
face 226 of floor top interlock 261, or to the top face of wall
portion 300b, but rather be inclined downward, in the direction
moving away from first transverse floor edge 120 at an angle
.gamma., as shown in FIG. 17. Likewise, it is preferred that planar
exterior face 227 of wall end interlock A 262 be inclined upward,
in the direction moving toward first transverse floor edge 120, at
the same angle .gamma., as shown in FIG. 17. Accordingly, when
bottom edge of wall portion 200s-2 moves over the top surface of
floor portion 300b, from a folded position to an unfolded position,
the shear seals 260 located in slots 240 of floor top interlock 261
and wall end interlock A 262 will be compressed by the sliding
movement of wall end interlock A 262 to provide two elongate
sealing areas between floor portion 300b and wall portion 200s-2.
Also to facilitate mating, there is shown in FIG. 17 a step-down
268 on the exterior face 227 of wall end interlock A 262. Step-down
268 is an abrupt reduction in the thickness of wall end interlock A
262, in the direction moving from the inside edge of wall end
interlock A 262 toward the outside edge of wall end interlock A
262, which outside edge in the case of the junction depicted in
FIG. 17 is proximate first transverse floor edge 120 when wall
portion 200s-2 is in the fully unfolded position. Step-down 268 is
located between the slot 240 and the outside edge of wall end
interlock A 262. There is also shown in FIG. 17 a corresponding
step-up 269 on the exterior face 227 of floor top interlock 261.
Step-up 269 is an abrupt increase in the thickness of floor top
interlock 261, in the direction moving from the inside edge of
floor top interlock 261 toward the outside edge of floor top
interlock 261, which outside edge in the case of the junction
depicted in FIG. 17 is proximate first transverse floor edge 120
when floor portion 300b is in the fully unfolded position. Step-up
269 is located between the slot 240 and the inside edge of floor
top interlock 261 (distal from first transverse floor edge 120).
Step-down 268 and step-up 269 are appropriately located to act as a
"stop" and insure correct alignment of wall end interlock A 262
with floor top interlock 261 as wall end interlock A 262 slides
over floor top interlock 261.
[0174] J. Wall End Interlock B (263), Wall End Interlock A (262)
Sealing System
[0175] FIG. 18 depicts in exploded form the junction between a wall
end interlock B 263 and a wall end interlock A 262, each shown in
cross-section. The particular junction is shown for illustrative
purposes between wall portion 200s-2 and wall component 200P, with
wall end interlock B 263 positioned on the interior edge of wall
component 200P proximate first transverse edge 108 and wall end
interlock A 262 positioned on the vertical edge of wall portion
200s-2 proximate first longitudinal edge 106. In structure 150,
wall portion 200s-2 depicted in FIG. 18 is vertically oriented and
wall component 200P is vertically oriented.
[0176] In particular, wall end interlock B 263 in FIG. 18 is an
elongate member that has an elongate seal plate 223 with an
elongate interior face 226 and an opposing elongate planar exterior
face 227. The exterior face 227 preferably is hard and smooth to
provide a good sealing surface. Seal plate 223 has a length the
same, or substantially the same, as the height of wall component
200P when unfolded, so as to cover the interior edge of wall
component 200P proximate to first transverse edge 108. Seal plate
223 of wall end interlock B 263 has a width the same, or
substantially the same, as the width of wall portion 200s-2. In
general terms, the design of wall end interlock B 263 is
substantially the same as floor top interlock 261 depicted in FIG.
17, except wall end interlock B 263 is thinner because it need not
accommodate any flooring; for example, wall end interlock B 263 can
have a thickness "I" (not shown in FIG. 18) at its interior edge
equal to the thickness of an abutting protective layer 218, such as
MgO board.
[0177] Still referring to FIG. 18, an elongate seal slot 240 is
defined on the exterior face 227 of wall end interlock B 263,
proximate the interior edge of wall component 200P positioned
adjacent to first longitudinal edge 106. Seal slot 240 has a length
the same, or substantially the same, as the length of wall end
interlock B 263.
[0178] Wall end interlock B 263 can be secured to the interior edge
of wall component 200P as shown in FIG. 18 for example by adhesive
applied to interior face 226, or by fasteners, such as screw or
nail fasteners, spaced apart along the length of wall end interlock
B 263 and driven through the exterior face 227, or by utilizing a
combination of adhesive and fasteners.
[0179] FIG. 18 additionally shows a wall end interlock A 262
positioned along the depicted vertical edge of wall portion 200s-2.
The design of wall end interlock A 262 was previously disclosed in
connection with FIG. 17. The seal plate 223 of the wall end
interlock A 262 shown in FIG. 18 has a length and width the same,
or substantially the same, as the length and width of the depicted
vertical edge of wall portion 200s-2, so as to cover the entirety,
or substantially the entirety, of that vertical edge of wall
portion 200s-2, as shown in in FIG. 18. The elongate rectangular
key 222 of wall end interlock A 262 shown in FIG. 18 has a length
the same, or substantially the same, as the length of that wall end
interlock A 262. Key 222 is received in a corresponding elongate
slot formed in the exterior edge reinforcement positioned on the
vertical edge of the wall portion 200s-2 to which wall end
interlock A 262 is secured. The seal slot 240 of wall end interlock
A 262 shown in FIG. 18 has a length the same, or substantially the
same, as the length of that wall end interlock A 262. In the case
where the enclosure component 155, in this case wall portion
200s-2, utilizes the enclosure component laminate design shown in
FIG. 7, the locating slots 229 of wall end interlock A 262 shown in
FIG. 18 receive the edge portions of sheet metal layers 205 and
216, bent down at a ninety degree (90.degree.) angle.
[0180] Wall end interlock A 262 can be secured to the vertical edge
of wall portion 200s-2 shown in FIG. 18 for example by adhesive
applied to its interior face 226, or by fasteners, such as screw or
nail fasteners, spaced apart along the length of wall end interlock
A 262 and driven through its exterior face 227, or by utilizing a
combination of adhesive and fasteners.
[0181] In FIG. 18, wall end interlock A 262 mates with a wall end
interlock B 263. Prior to mating, a shear seal 260 is placed in the
seal slot 240 of wall end interlock A 262, and a shear seal 260 is
placed in the seal slot 240 of wall end interlock B 263. Each of
the shear seals 260 placed in the seals slots 240 of wall end
interlock A 262 and a wall end interlock B 263 has the same, or
approximately the same, length as the slot 240 in which it is
inserted.
[0182] Mating of wall end interlock A 262 and a wall end interlock
B 263 occurs by the vertical edge of wall portion 200s-2 depicted
in FIG. 18 swinging toward and across the interior surface of wall
component 200P, as wall portion 200s-2 moves from a folded position
to an unfolded position. Thus in the arrangement shown in FIG. 18,
such mating will correspond to a movement of wall portion 200s-2
from the top of the figure toward the bottom, with wall end
interlock A 262 sliding across wall end interlock B 263 until the
fully unfolded position is reached. In that fully unfolded
position, the shear seal 260 in wall end interlock A 262, and
particularly its seal surface 257, will be in pressing contact with
the exterior face 227 of wall end interlock B 263; and the shear
seal 260 in wall end interlock B 263, and particularly its seal
surface 257, will be in pressing contact with the exterior face 227
of wall end interlock A 262. Consistent with this movement, the
shear seal 260 placed in seal slot 240 of floor top interlock B 263
is preferably oriented so that the free end 258 of its cantilevered
seal surface 257 is directed toward the exterior edge of wall end
interlock B 263 (toward first transverse edge 108), and the shear
seal 260 placed in the seal slot 240 of wall end interlock A 262 is
preferably oriented so that the free end 258 of its cantilevered
seal surface 257 is directed toward the interior edge of wall end
interlock A 262 (away from first transverse edge 108).
[0183] To facilitate mating, it is preferred that planar exterior
face 227 of wall end interlock B 263 not be parallel to the
interior face 226 of wall end interlock B or to the interior face
of wall component 200P, but rather be inclined at an angle .gamma.,
as shown in FIG. 17, so that seal plate 223 of wall end interlock B
263 becomes progressively thinner moving away from first transverse
edge 108. Likewise, it is preferred that planar exterior face 227
of wall end interlock A 262 be inclined at the same angle .gamma.,
as shown in FIG. 17, so that seal plate 223 of wall end interlock A
262 becomes progressively thicker moving away from first transverse
edge 108. Accordingly, when vertical edge of wall portion 200s-2
swings toward and across the interior surface of wall component
200P, from a folded position to an unfolded position, the shear
seals 260 located in slots 240 of floor end interlock A 262 and
wall end interlock B 263 will be compressed by the sliding movement
of wall end interlock A 262 to provide two elongate sealing areas
between wall component 200P and wall portion 200s-2. Also to
facilitate mating, as previously described a step-down 268 is
provided on the exterior face 227 of wall end interlock A 262.
Step-down 268 is an abrupt reduction in the thickness of wall end
interlock A 262, in the direction moving from the inside edge of
wall end interlock A 262 toward the outside edge of wall end
interlock A 262, which outside edge in the case of the junction
depicted in FIG. 18 is proximate first transverse edge 108 when
wall portion 200s-2 is in the fully unfolded position. Step-down
268 is positioned between the slot 240 and the outside edge of wall
end interlock A 262 (proximate transverse edge 108), as depicted in
FIG. 18. Also as depicted in FIG. 18, a corresponding step-up 269
is provided on the exterior face 227 of wall end interlock B 263.
Step-up 269 is an abrupt increase in thickness of wall end
interlock B 263, in the direction moving from the inside edge of
wall end interlock B 263 toward the outside edge of wall end
interlock B 263, which outside edge in the case of the junction
depicted in FIG. 18 is proximate first transverse edge 108. Step-up
269 is positioned between the slot 240 and the inside edge of wall
end interlock B 263 (distal from first transverse edge 108).
Step-down 268 and step-up 269 are appropriately located to act as a
"stop" and insure correct alignment of wall end interlock A 262
with wall end interlock B 263 as wall end interlock A 262 slides
across wall end interlock B 263.
[0184] K. Closure Boards
[0185] The two closure boards of these inventions, namely perimeter
board 310 and roof skirt board 280, are described below.
[0186] Perimeter Board (310). The exterior edges of floor component
300, or portions thereof, are optionally provided with a perimeter
board 310.
[0187] FIG. 19A depicts in cross section an exemplary positioning
of perimeter board 310. In particular, perimeter board 310 is
designed to be positioned against an I-beam end cap 221, in this
instance the I-beam end cap 221 located on an exterior edge of
floor portion 300a. Perimeter board 310 includes an elongate seal
plate 223 with an interior face 226 and an opposing exterior face
227. Perimeter board 310 has such length as is desired, such as to
span the entirety of the exterior edge of floor portion 300a. As
shown in FIG. 19A, the width of perimeter board 310 can be
sufficient to capture the thickness of the floor component 300a, or
floor portion thereof against which it is positioned, plus a
portion of the abutting wall component 200 or wall component
portion.
[0188] The interior face 226 of perimeter board 310 includes an
elongate locating key 264, which is rectangular in cross section
and dimensioned to be received in accessory slot 224 of I-beam end
cap 221. Locating key 264 can be the same length as the perimeter
board 310, or can comprise space apart discrete segments. The
interior face 226 of perimeter board 310 in FIG. 19A also includes
a plurality of elongate clearance slots 266, rectangular in cross
section in the embodiment shown, and having a length the same as,
or substantially the same as, the length of perimeter board 310.
Clearance slots 266 are preferably located so as to be positioned
over locating grooves 225 of I-beam end cap 221 when locating key
264 is received in accessory slot 224. When so located, clearance
slots 266 provide space for fastener heads driven into locating
grooves 225 of I-beam end cap 221 so that perimeter board 310 can
be snugly positioned against I-beam end cap 221.
[0189] The exterior face 227 of perimeter board 310 depicted in
FIG. 19A includes two elongate fastener slots 265, each of which
has a dovetail shape in cross section in the embodiment shown, and
a length the same as, or substantially the same as, the length of
perimeter board 310. A locating groove 225 is provided in each
fastener slot 265, so as to facilitate the accurate positioning of
nails or other fasteners utilized to secure perimeter board 310 to
abutting components.
[0190] FIG. 19B depicts in cross section the positioning of I-beam
end cap 221, floor top plate 252, wall end cap 246 and perimeter
board 310 relative to each other at a junction between wall
component 200R and floor portion 300a. As can be seen, perimeter
board 310 masks this junction from external view to achieve a more
attractive appearance, as well as providing an additional barrier
against the ingress of soil, dust, rain and the like. A resilient
strip 267, such as those shown in FIG. 19B, can be snapped into
each of the fastener slots 265 to cover any nail or fastener heads
exposed in those slots.
[0191] Roof Skirt Board. The exterior edges of roof component 400,
or portions thereof, are optionally provided with a roof skirt
board 280.
[0192] FIG. 20 depicts in cross section an exemplary positioning of
roof skirt board 280. In particular, roof skirt board 280 is
designed to be positioned against an I-beam end cap 221, in this
instance the I-beam end cap 221 located on an exterior edge of roof
portion 400a. Roof skirt board 280 includes an elongate seal plate
223 with an interior face 226 and an opposing exterior face 227.
Roof skirt board 280 has such length as is desired, such as to span
the entirety of the exterior edge of roof portion 400a. As shown in
FIG. 20, the width of roof skirt board 280 can be sufficient to
capture the thickness of the roof component 400, or portion thereof
against which it is positioned, plus a portion of the abutting wall
component 200 or wall portion.
[0193] The interior face 226 of roof skirt board 280 includes an
elongate cinch key 278, which is preferably serpentine in cross
section and dimensioned to be received in accessory slot 224 of
I-beam end cap 221. Cinch key 278 can be the same length as the
perimeter board 310, or can comprise space apart discrete segments.
In turn, the exterior face 227 of roof skirt board 280 includes an
elongate fastener slot 265 positioned over cinch key 278. Fastener
slot 265 has a dovetail shape in cross section in the embodiment
shown, and a length the same as, or substantially the same as, the
length of roof skirt board 280. An elongate locating groove 225 is
provided in the fastener slot 265 of roof skirt board 280, and
provides a visual indication of where to place fasteners during
construction.
[0194] Roof skirt board 280 facilitates the securing of roofing
material, such as thermoplastic polyolefin membrane, to wall
components 200. After fully unfolding the roof portions, such
roofing material is optionally used to cover the top of roof
component 400. The roofing material extending beyond roof component
400 is then folded down to extend between exterior face 227 of
I-beam end cap 221 of roof portion 400a shown in FIG. 20 and
interior face 226 of roof skirt board 280. After the roofing
material is so positioned, nails or other fasteners are driven at
spaced intervals along locating groove 225, to press roof skirt
board 280 against the roofing material and secure the roofing
material in place between roof skirt board 280 and I-beam end cap
221. Cinch key 278, if provided with a serpentine or like cross
section, provides additional area, so as to better capture the
roofing material. An elongate resilient strip 267, such as the one
shown in FIG. 20, can be snapped into fastener slot 265 to cover
any nail or fastener heads exposed in this slot.
Enclosure Component Sealing Structure Materials
[0195] The enclosure component sealing structures described herein
can be fabricated from a number of materials, such as wood,
aluminum, plastics and the like. It is preferred to fabricate the
enclosure component sealing structures from foamed polyvinyl
chloride (PVC), particularly Celuka foamed PVC. This material
provides a strong, impact and crack-resistant lightweight material
with a hard attractive exterior, which, in addition to contributing
a sealing function, additionally contributes to the structural
rigidity of the enclosure components 155.
Enclosure Component Sealing Structure Exemplary Placements
[0196] The exploded views in FIGS. 21A and 21B of structure 150
depicted in FIG. 1 provide exemplary placements of the enclosure
component sealing structures described herein. For illustrative
purposes to better understand some of these exemplary placements,
certain of the enclosure component sealing structures shown in
FIGS. 21A and 21B are shown slightly separated from the enclosure
component 155 to which they are fastened.
[0197] Referring to FIG. 21A, I-beam end caps 221 can be utilized
to seal the horizontal exterior edges of floor portion 300a (three
placements), floor portion 300b (three placements), roof portion
300a (three placements), roof portion 300b (two placements) and
roof portion 300c (three placements). Further, as shown in FIG. 21B
and in detail in FIG. 12, the hinged junction between wall portion
200s-1 and 200s-2 can be sealed by positioning a wall end cap 246
on the vertical edge of wall portion 200s-1 and a wall vertical
interlock 245 on the vertical edge of wall portion 200s-2.
Likewise, the hinged vertical junction between wall portion 200s-3
and 200s-4 can be sealed as shown in FIG. 21B by positioning a wall
end cap 246 on the hinged vertical edge of wall portion 200s-3 and
a wall vertical interlock 245 on the hinged vertical edge of wall
portion 200s-4.
[0198] In addition, as shown in FIGS. 21A and 21B, and in detail in
FIG. 13, the horizontal junction between wall component 200R and
roof portion 400a can be sealed by positioning a roof bottom plate
255 on the bottom face of roof portion 400a overlying wall
component 200R and by positioning a wall end cap 246 on the
horizontal edge of wall component 200R, which supports roof portion
400a. A like seal arrangement can be used to seal the horizontal
junctions between roof portions 400a, 400b and 400c, and wall
portions 200s-1 through 200s-4 (unfolded roof portion 400b will
rest on unfolded wall portion 200s-2 and also on a section of wall
portion 200s-1, as can be appreciated from FIG. 3), as well as to
seal the horizontal junction between roof portion 400c and wall
component 200P. The two vertical exterior edges of wall component
200R can each be sealed by positioning on each of them a wall end
cap 246.
[0199] In a comparable manner, as shown in FIGS. 21A, 21B and in
detail in FIG. 15, the horizontal junction between wall component
200R and floor portion 300a can be sealed by positioning a wall end
cap 246 on the horizontal edge of wall component 200R resting on
floor portion 300a and by positioning on the top face of floor
portion 300a underlying wall component 200R a floor top plate 252.
A like seal arrangement can be used to seal the horizontal
junctions between floor portion 300b and wall component 200P, and
between floor portion 300a and wall portions 200s-1 and 200s-3, up
to the point where wall portion 200s-1 meets wall portion 200s-2,
and up to the point where wall portion 200s-3 meets wall portion
200s-4. The two vertical exterior edges of wall component 200P can
be sealed by positioning on each of them a wall end cap 246.
[0200] Furthermore, the hinged horizontal junction between roof
portion 400b and roof portion 400c, as shown in FIG. 21A and in
detail in FIG. 14, can be sealed by positioning an I-beam interlock
A 250 on interior edge 412c of roof portion 400c, and an I-beam
interlock B 251 on first interior edge 412b of roof portion 400b.
Similarly, the hinged horizontal junction between roof portion 400a
and roof portion 400b shown in FIG. 21A can be sealed by
positioning an I-beam interlock A 250 on second interior edge 412b
of roof portion 400b, and an I-beam interlock B 251 on interior
edge 412a of roof portion 400a. In like manner, the hinged
horizontal junction between floor portion 300a and floor portion
300b can be sealed by positioning an I-beam interlock A 250 on the
interior edge 301b of floor portion 300b and an I-beam interlock B
251 on the interior edge 301a of floor portion 300a.
[0201] Referring now to FIGS. 21A, 21B and in detail to FIG. 17,
the horizontal junction between wall portion 200s-2 and floor
portions 300a and 300b can be sealed by positioning a wall end
interlock A 262 on the bottom edge of wall portion 200s-2 and a
floor top interlock 261 on the regions of the upper face of floor
portions 300a and 300b underlying wall portion 200s-2 when wall
portion 200s-2 is in its fully unfolded position. The horizontal
junction between wall portion 200s-4 and floor portions 300a and
300b when wall portion 200s-4 in its fully unfolded position can be
sealed similarly.
[0202] Finally, referring to FIG. 21B and in detail to FIG. 18, the
vertical junction between wall portion 200s-2 and wall component
200P can be sealed by positioning a wall end interlock A 262 on the
vertical edge of wall portion 200s-2 that is adjacent to wall
component 200P when both wall portion 200s-2 and wall component
200P are in their fully unfolded positons, and by positioning a
wall end interlock B 263 on the region of the interior face of wall
component 200P that is adjacent wall portion 200s-2 when both wall
portion 200s-2 and wall component 200P are in their fully unfolded
positions. The vertical junction between wall portion 200s-4 and
wall component 200P can be sealed in like manner.
Enclosure Component Manufacture
[0203] For enclosure components 155 utilizing the multi-layered,
laminate design disclosed herein in reference to FIG. 7, the metal
sheets 206 and 217 that can be used to form first structural layer
210 and second structural layer 215 respectively can be entirely
flat and juxtaposed in a simple abutting relationship. Optionally,
metal sheets 206 and 217 can be provided with edge structures that
facilitate placement of sheets and panels during manufacture.
[0204] Particular edge structure designs for metal sheets 206 and
217 are described in U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser.
No. 17/504,883 entitled "Sheet/Panel Design for Enclosure Component
Manufacture," having the same inventors as the inventions described
herein and filed on Oct. 19, 2021. The contents of U.S.
Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 17/504,883 entitled
"Sheet/Panel Design for Enclosure Component Manufacture," having
the same inventors as the inventions described herein and filed on
Oct. 19, 2021, are incorporated by reference as if fully set forth
herein, particularly including the exterior and interior edge
structure designs described for example at 00187-00205 and 00212
and in FIGS. 8, 9A-9C, 23A-23J and 24A-24B thereof.
[0205] A facility suitable for the manufacture of enclosure
components 155, as well as exemplary manufacturing steps, are also
described in U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No.
17/504,883 entitled "Sheet/Panel Design for Enclosure Component
Manufacture," having the same inventors as the inventions described
herein and filed on Oct. 19, 2021. The contents of U.S.
Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 17/504,883 entitled
"Sheet/Panel Design for Enclosure Component Manufacture," having
the same inventors as the inventions described herein and filed on
Oct. 19, 2021, are incorporated by reference as if fully set forth
herein, particularly including the facility suitable for
manufacturing the enclosure components 155 of the present
invention, as well as exemplary manufacturing steps, described for
example at 00178-00186 and 00206-00222, and in FIGS. 22, 23A-23J
and 24A-24B.
Enclosure Component Relationships and Assembly for Transport
[0206] For ease of transport and maximum design flexibility, it is
preferred that there be a specific dimensional relationship among
enclosure components 155.
[0207] FIG. 2 shows a top schematic view of structure 150 shown in
FIG. 1, and includes a geometrical orthogonal grid for clarity of
explaining the preferred dimensional relationships among its
enclosure components 155. The basic length used for dimensioning is
indicated as "E" in FIG. 2; the orthogonal grid overlaid in FIG. 2
is 8E long and 8E wide; notably, the entire structure 150,
including perimeter boards 310, preferably is bounded by this 8E by
8E orthogonal grid.
[0208] Roof portions 400a, 400b and 400c each can be identically
dimensioned in the transverse direction. Alternatively, referring
to FIG. 3, roof portion 400c (which is stacked upon roof portions
400a and 400b when roof portions 400b, 400c are fully folded) can
be dimensioned to be larger than either of roof portion 400a and
roof portion 400b in the transverse direction for example, by ten
to fifteen percent, or by at least the aggregate thickness of roof
components 400a and 400b. This transverse direction dimensional
increase is to reduce the chances of binding during the unfolding
of roof portions 400b, 400c. In addition, as described in U.S.
Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 16/786,315, entitled
"Equipment and Methods for Erecting a Transportable Foldable
Building Structure," and filed on Feb. 10, 2020, friction-reducing
components can be used to facilitate unfolding roof component 400,
such as by positioning a first wheel caster at the leading edge of
roof portion 400c proximate to the corner of roof portion 400c that
is supported by wall portion 200s-2 as roof portion 400c is
deployed, and by positioning a second similar wheel caster at the
leading edge of roof portion 400c proximate to the corner of roof
portion 400c that is supported by wall portion 200s-4 as roof
portion 400c is deployed. In such a case, roof portion 400c can be
dimensioned larger than either of roof portions 400a and 400b in
the transverse direction by at least the aggregate thickness of
roof components 400a and 400b, less the length of the first or
second wheel caster.
[0209] In FIG. 2, the four wall components 200 are each
approximately 8E long, and each of roof portions 400a and 400b is
approximately 8E long and 2.5E wide. Roof portion 400c is
approximately 8E long and 2.9E wide. In FIGS. 2 and 3, each of
floor components 300a and 300b is 8H long; whereas floor component
300a is just over 3E wide and floor component 300b is just under 5E
wide.
[0210] The shipping module 100 shown edge-on in FIG. 3 includes a
fixed space portion 102 defined by roof component 400a, floor
component 300a, wall component 200R, wall portion 200s-1 and wall
portion 200s-3. As shown in FIG. 2, fourth wall portion 200s-4 is
folded inward and positioned generally against fixed space portion
102, and second wall portion 200s-2 is folded inward and positioned
generally against fourth wall portion 200s-4 (wall portions 200s-2
and 200s-4 are respectively identified in FIG. 2 as portions
200s-2f and 200s-4f when so folded and positioned). The three roof
components 400a, 400b and 400c are shown unfolded in FIG. 1 and
shown folded (stacked) in FIG. 3, with roof component 400b stacked
on top of roof component 400a, and roof component 400c stacked on
top of the roof component 400b. Wall component 200P, shown in FIGS.
2 and 3, is pivotally secured to floor portion 300b at the location
of axis 105, and is vertically positioned against the outside of
wall portions 200s-2 and 200s-4. In turn, floor portion 300b is
vertically positioned proximate fixed space portion 102, with wall
component 200P pending from floor portion 300b between floor
portion 300b and wall portions 200s-2 and 200s-4.
[0211] Sizing the enclosure components 155 of structure 150
according to the dimensional relationships disclosed above yields a
compact shipping module 100, as can be seen from the figures. Thus
shipping module 100 depicted in FIG. 3, when dimensioned according
to the relationships disclosed herein using an "E" dimension (see
FIG. 2) of approximately 28.625 inches (72.7 cm), and when its
components are stacked and positioned as shown in FIG. 3, has an
overall length of approximately 19 feet (5.79 m), an overall width
of approximately 8.5 feet (2.59 meters) and an overall height of
approximately 12.7 feet (3.87 meters). These overall dimensions are
less than a typical shipping container.
[0212] It is preferred that the fixed space portion 102 be in a
relatively finished state prior to positioning (folding) together
of all other wall, roof and floor portions as described above. In
the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, wall components 200 are
fitted during manufacture and prior to shipment with all necessary
door and window assemblies, with the enclosure components 155 being
pre-wired, and fixed space portion 102 is fitted during manufacture
with all mechanical and other functionality that structure 150 will
require, such as kitchens, bathrooms, closets and other interior
partitions, storage areas, corridors, etc. An interior design for
fixed space portion 102 is described in U.S. Nonprovisional
application Ser. No. 17/587,051, entitled "Wall Component
Appurtenances," filed on Jan. 28, 2022 and having the same
inventors as this disclosure. The contents of that U.S.
Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 17/587,051, entitled
"Wall Component Appurtenances," filed on Jan. 28, 2022 and having
the same inventors as this disclosure are incorporated by reference
as if fully set forth herein, particularly including the interior
design details for fixed space portion 102 described for example at
0082-85 and depicted in FIGS. 11A-11C thereof. Carrying out the
foregoing steps prior to shipment permits the builder, in effect,
to erect a largely finished structure 150 simply by "unfolding"
(deploying) the positioned components of shipping module 100.
[0213] Each of the wall, floor and roof components 200, 300 and
400, and/or the portions thereof, can be sheathed in protective
film 177 during fabrication and prior to forming the shipping
module 100. Alternatively or in addition, the entire shipping
module 100 can be sheathed in a protective film. Such protective
films can remain in place until after the shipping module 100 is at
the construction site, and then removed as required to facilitate
enclosure component deployment and finishing.
Shipping Module Transport
[0214] The shipping module 100 is shipped to the building site by
appropriate transport means. One such transport means is disclosed
in U.S. Pat. No. 11,007,921, issued May 18, 2021; the contents of
which are incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein,
particularly as found at paragraphs 0020-0035 and in FIGS. 1A-2D
thereof. As an alternative transport means, shipping module 100 can
be shipped to the building site by means of a conventional truck
trailer or a low bed trailer (also referred to as a lowboy
trailer), and in the case of over-the-water shipments, by ship.
[0215] The movement of shipping module 100 is facilitated by the
presence of fork tubes 360a, 360b in floor portion 300a. For
example, a shipping module can be moved from factory to a transport
means using an appropriately-sized forklift, with the forks of the
forklift being inserted into fork tubes 360a, 360b. As another
example, straps pending from a reach stacker or a ship-to-shore
crane, typically used to move intermodal containers, can be passed
by ground personnel through fork tubes 360a, 360b and then
appropriately secured, to permit movement of the shipping module
100. Addition of perimeter board 310 can be deferred until after
shipping module 100 is delivered to its desired location.
Alternatively, perimeter board 310 can be provided with cut-outs so
as to permit straps or forks to have access to fork tubes 360a,
360b, which cut-outs optionally can be covered and/or filled once
access to fork tubes 360a, 360b is no longer needed.
Structure Deployment and Finishing
[0216] At the building site, shipping module 100 is positioned over
its desired location, such as over a prepared foundation; for
example, a poured concrete slab, a poured concrete or cinder block
foundation, sleeper beams or concrete posts or columns. This can be
accomplished by using a crane, either to lift shipping module 100
from its transport and move it to the desired location, or by
positioning the transport means over the desired location, lifting
shipping module 100, then moving the transport means from the
desired location, and then lowering shipping module 100 to a rest
state at the desired location. Particularly suitable equipment and
techniques for facilitating the positioning of a shipping module
100 at the desired location are disclosed in U.S. Nonprovisional
patent application Ser. No. 16/786,315, entitled "Equipment and
Methods for Erecting a Transportable Foldable Building Structure,"
and filed on Feb. 10, 2020. The contents of that U.S.
Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 16/786,315, entitled
"Equipment and Methods for Erecting a Transportable Foldable
Building Structure," and filed on Feb. 10, 2020, are incorporated
by reference as if fully set forth herein, particularly including
the equipment and techniques described for example at 00126-00128
and in connection with FIGS. 11A and 11B thereof.
[0217] Following positioning of shipping module 100 at the building
site, the appropriate portions of wall, floor and roof components
200, 300 and 400 are "unfolded" (i.e., deployed) to yield structure
150. Unfolding occurs in the following sequence: (1) floor portion
300b is pivotally rotated about horizontal axis 305 (shown in FIGS.
3 and 4) to an unfolded position, (2) wall component 200P is
pivotally rotated about horizontal axis 105 (shown in FIG. 3 behind
perimeter board 312) to an unfolded position, (3) wall portions
200s-2 and 200s-4 are pivotally rotated about vertical axes 192 and
194 (shown in FIG. 2) respectively to unfolded positions, and (4)
roof portions 400b and 400c are pivotally rotated about horizontal
axes 405a and 405b (shown in FIGS. 3 and 4) respectively to
unfolded positions.
[0218] A mobile crane can be used to assist in the deployment of
certain of the enclosure components 155, specifically roof portions
400b and 400c, floor portion 300b, as well as the wall component
200P pivotally secured to floor portion 300b. Alternatively,
particularly suitable equipment and techniques for facilitating the
deployment of enclosure components 155 are disclosed in U.S.
Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 16/786,315, entitled
"Equipment and Methods for Erecting a Transportable Foldable
Building Structure," and filed on Feb. 10, 2020. The contents of
that U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 16/786,315,
entitled "Equipment and Methods for Erecting a Transportable
Foldable Building Structure," and filed on Feb. 10, 2020, are
incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein,
particularly including the equipment and techniques described for
example at 00132-00145 and depicted in FIGS. 12A-14B thereof.
[0219] After unfolding, the enclosure components 155 are secured
together to finish the structure 150 that is shown in FIG. 1.
Perimeter board 312 and roof skirt board 280 provide structures for
securing wall, floor and roof components in their deployed
positions. In addition, certain appurtenances can be fitted to wall
components 200 to facilitate fastening them to floor component 300,
as well as to improve the interior appearance and speed
fabrication. Further details regarding these appurtenances are
described in U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No.
17/587,051, entitled "Wall Component Appurtenances," filed on Jan.
28, 2022 and having the same inventors as this disclosure. The
contents of that U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No.
17/587,051, entitled "Wall Component Appurtenances," filed on Jan.
28, 2022 and having the same inventors as this disclosure are
incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein,
particularly including the first and second appurtenance designs
described for example at 0047-61 and depicted in FIGS. 8A-10C
thereof.
[0220] If any temporary hinge structures have been utilized, then
these temporary hinge structures can be removed if desired and the
enclosure components 155 can be secured together. During or after
unfolding and securing of the enclosure components 155, any
remaining finishing operations are performed, such as addition of
roofing material, and making hook-ups to electrical, fresh water
and sewer lines to complete structure 150, as relevant here.
Building Configuration Options
[0221] Any number of structures 150 can be positioned together at
the desired site, to yield a multitude of different structural
configurations. Interior staircases for such multi-story structures
can be provided during manufacture in fixed space portion 102,
together with insertion of an appropriate access aperture in roof
component 400, or can be added after erection. Likewise, a pitched
roof and other architectural additions can be delivered separately
from shipping module 100 or fabricated on-site, and positioned onto
roof component 400 of structure 150.
[0222] For example, two or more structures 150 can be erected so
that a wall component 200 of one structure is placed adjacent a
wall component 200 of the other structure. The builder can then cut
apertures in those juxtaposed regions to connect the two
structures, either in the factory or on-site, in accordance with
the marketer's or purchaser's choices. As one example, FIG. 22
depicts the floor plan of three structures 150, namely 150a, 150b
and 150c, arranged side-by-side to yield one housing unit with
three rooms. In such a case, the perimeter boards 310 of the
adjoining structures 150 can abut each other, thereby providing a
space between the adjoining structures 150 through which utility
lines can be passed.
[0223] Structures 150 can also be stacked, one on top of the other,
to create multi-story structures. FIG. 23 depicts a structure 150e
positioned on top of a structure 150d to yield a two story
structure. Thus as shown in FIG. 23, there is provided a garage
aperture 203 in addition to door aperture 202 on the first level,
as well as a door aperture 202 (not visible) on the second level,
which is accessed via exterior stairway 201.
[0224] In the case of stacking structures 150, such as structure
150e shown in FIG. 23 stacked on top of structure 150d, spacer
plates 404 can be used to separate the floor component 300 of the
structure 150e from the roof component 400 of the structure 150d.
FIG. 24 shows an embodiment of a spacer plate 404, which comprises
a planar base 402 having an interior face 407, an opposed exterior
face 401 (not visible in FIG. 24), and a thickness. There is a lip
403 extending away from the interior face 407 of base 402 in a
perpendicular direction. The edge 421 of lip 403 distal from
interior face 407 is provided with a set of stepped locating ridges
253. The geometry of these ridges 253 is such as to be able to mesh
with the corresponding stepped locating ridges 253 shown of I-beam
end cap 221.
[0225] In use, spacer plates 404 can be provided on the bottom
surface of the floor component 300 of the upper structure 150
(structure 150e in FIG. 23), positioned along the first and second
longitudinal floor edges 117 and 119, and along the first and
second transverse floor edges 120 and 118. Spacer plates 404 can
also be provided on the top surface of the roof component 400 of
the lower structure 150 (structure 150d in FIG. 23), positioned
along the first and second longitudinal roof edges 406 and 416, and
along the first transverse and second transverse roof edges 408 and
410.
[0226] The spacer plates 404 associated with the upper structure
150 can be positioned to overlie the spacer plates 404 associated
with the lower structure 150. When the spacer plates 404 are
employed in such a manner, the spacer plates 404 associated with
the upper structure 150 support the weight and loads of the upper
structure 150, and transfer that weight and loads to lower
structure 150 through the spacer plates 404 associated with lower
structure 150. As shown in FIG. 25, the locating ridges 253 on
spacer plates 404 engage the corresponding locating ridges 253 on
the I-beam end caps 221 of floor component 300 (shown for floor
portion 300a) and roof component 400 (shown for roof portion
400a).
[0227] Although depicted at having a relative square shape in FIG.
24, spacer plate 404 can be made elongate, or can be provided with
a length the same, or substantially the same, as the length of the
roof or floor edges at which they are positioned, as preferred.
Where the length of spacer plate 404 is less than the length of the
roof or floor edges at which they are positioned, a plurality of
spacer plates can be provided in segments along those edges, again
in accordance with preference. Such spacer plates 404 provide an
air barrier between the levels of the multi-story structure. Spacer
plates 404 can be made for example from acrylonitrile butadiene
styrene plastic or extruded polyvinyl chloride plastic.
[0228] As necessary, means can be utilized to secure stacked
structures 150 each to the other, such as by use of steel
reinforcing plates fastened at spaced-apart locations to join an
overlying floor component 300 to an underlying roof component
400.
[0229] This disclosure should be understood to include (as
illustrative and not limiting) the subject matter set forth in the
following numbered clauses:
[0230] Clause 1. A spacer system for stacked enclosure components,
comprising:
(a) a first enclosure component having a horizontal first surface,
an opposed horizontal second surface and an edge with an edge
length; (b) a planar elongate first seal plate having a first seal
plate edge, an opposed second seal plate edge, a seal plate
exterior face, an opposed seal plate interior face and a seal plate
thickness, the first seal plate edge provided with a first set of
stepped locating ridges extending from the first seal plate edge
inwardly into the seal plate thickness toward the second seal plate
edge, and the seal plate interior face secured to the edge of the
first enclosure component; (b) a spacer plate including a planar
base having a spacer plate exterior face, an opposed spacer plate
interior face, a spacer plate thickness, and a lip extending away
from the spacer plate interior face, the lip having an edge distal
from the spacer plate interior face which includes a second set of
stepped locating ridges; and (c) the spacer plate interior face
positioned against the horizontal first surface of the first
enclosure component adjacent the edge of the first enclosure
component, with the second set of stepped locating ridges in a
mating relationship with the first set of stepped locating
ridges.
[0231] Clause 2. Spaced-apart stacked building structures,
comprising:
(a) a first building structure comprising: (i) a floor component
having a bottom surface, an opposed top surface and an edge with a
floor edge length; (ii) a planar elongate first seal plate having a
first seal plate edge, an opposed second seal plate edge, a seal
plate exterior face, an opposed seal plate interior face and a seal
plate thickness, the first seal plate edge provided with a first
set of stepped locating ridges extending from the first seal plate
edge inwardly into the seal plate thickness toward the second seal
plate edge, and the seal plate interior face of the first seal
plate secured to the edge of the floor component; (iii) a first
spacer plate comprising a planar base having a first spacer plate
exterior face, an opposed first spacer plate interior face, a
thickness, and a lip extending away from the first spacer plate
interior face, the lip having an edge distal from the first spacer
plate interior face which includes a second set of stepped locating
ridges; and (iv) the first spacer plate interior face positioned
against the bottom surface of the floor component adjacent the edge
of the floor component, with the second set of stepped locating
ridges in a mating relationship with the first set of locating
ridges; (b) a second building structure comprising: (i) a roof
component having a bottom surface, an opposed top surface and an
edge with a roof edge length; (ii) a planar elongate second seal
plate having a first seal plate edge, an opposed second seal plate
edge, a seal plate exterior face, an opposed seal plate interior
face and a seal plate thickness, the first seal plate edge of the
second seal plate provided with a third set of stepped locating
ridges extending from the first seal plate edge of the second seal
plate inwardly into the seal plate thickness of the second seal
plate toward the second seal plate edge thereof, and the seal plate
interior face of the second seal plate secured to the edge of the
roof component; (iii) a second spacer plate comprising a planar
base having a second spacer plate exterior face, an opposed second
spacer plate interior face, a thickness, and a lip extending away
from the second spacer plate interior face, the lip having an edge
distal from the second spacer plate interior face which includes a
fourth set of stepped locating ridges; and (iv) the second spacer
plate interior face positioned against the top surface of the roof
component adjacent the edge of the roof component, with the fourth
set of stepped locating ridges in a mating relationship with the
third set of locating ridges; and (c) the first spacer place
exterior face positioned against the second spacer plate exterior
face.
[0232] Clause 3. The spacer system as in clause 1, wherein the
spacer plate has a spacer plate length equal to the edge
length.
[0233] Clause 4. The spacer system as in clause 1, wherein the
spacer plate is one of a plurality of spacer plates secured to the
horizontal first surface of the first enclosure component adjacent
the edge of the first enclosure component.
[0234] Clause 5. The spacer system of any one of clause 1, 3 or 4,
further comprising a third set of stepped locating ridges extending
from the second seal plate edge inwardly into the seal plate
thickness toward the first seal plate edge.
[0235] Clause 6. The spacer system of any one of clause 1, 3, 4 or
5, wherein the seal plate is polyvinyl chloride.
[0236] Clause 7. The spacer system of any one of clauses 1-6,
wherein the spacer plate is one of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
or polyvinyl chloride.
[0237] Clause 8. The spacer system of any one of clauses 1-7,
wherein the first enclosure component is a planar laminate that
includes (i) a planar foam panel layer having a first face and an
opposed second face, (ii) a planar first structural layer having an
interior face bonded to the first face of the foam panel layer and
an exterior face, and (iii) a planar second structural layer bonded
to the second face of the foam panel layer.
[0238] Clause 9. The spacer system of clause 8, wherein the first
structural layer is a metal sheet layer.
[0239] Clause 10. The spacer system of either of clause 8 or clause
9, wherein the exterior face of the first structural layer is
coincident with the first surface of the first enclosure
component.
[0240] Clause 11. The spacer system of any one of clauses 8, 9 or
10, wherein the second structural layer is a metal sheet layer.
[0241] Clause 12. The stacked building structures as in clause 2,
wherein the first spacer plate has a spacer plate length equal to
the floor edge length.
[0242] Clause 13. The stacked building structures as in clause 12,
wherein the second spacer plate has a spacer plate length equal to
the roof edge length.
[0243] Clause 14. The stacked building structures as in clause 2,
wherein the first spacer plate is one of a first plurality of
spacer plates positioned against the bottom surface of the floor
component adjacent the edge of the floor component.
[0244] Clause 15. The stacked building structures as in any one of
clause 2, 12 or 14, wherein the second spacer plate is one of a
second plurality of spacer plates positioned against the top
surface of the roof component adjacent the edge of the roof
component.
[0245] Clause 16. The stacked building structures of any one of
clauses 2 and 12-15, further comprising a fifth set of stepped
locating ridges extending from the second seal plate edge of the
first seal plate inwardly into the seal plate thickness toward the
first seal plate edge of the first seal plate.
[0246] Clause 17. The stacked building structures any one of
clauses 2 and 12-16, further comprising a sixth set of stepped
locating ridges extending from the second seal plate edge of the
second seal plate inwardly into the seal plate thickness toward the
first seal plate edge of the second seal plate.
[0247] Clause 18. The stacked building structures any one of
clauses 2 and 12-17, wherein each of the first seal plate and the
second seal plate is polyvinyl chloride.
[0248] Clause 19. The stacked building structures of any one of
clauses 2 and 12-18, wherein each of the first spacer plate and the
second spacer plate is one of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene or
polyvinyl chloride.
[0249] Clause 20. The stacked building structures of any one of
clauses 2 and 12-19, wherein the floor component is a planar
laminate that includes (i) a planar foam panel layer having a first
face and an opposed second face, (ii) a planar first structural
layer having an interior face bonded to the first face of the foam
panel layer and an exterior face, and (iii) a planar second
structural layer having a first face, bonded to the second face of
the foam panel layer, and an opposed second face.
[0250] Clause 21. The stacked building structures of clause 20,
wherein the first structural layer of the floor component is a
metal sheet layer.
[0251] Clause 22. The stacked building structures of either of
clause 20 or 21, wherein the exterior face of the first structural
layer of the floor component is coincident with the bottom surface
of the floor component.
[0252] Clause 23. The stacked building structures of any one of
clause 20, 21 or 22, wherein the second structural layer of the
floor component is a metal sheet layer.
[0253] Clause 24. The stacked building structures of any one of
clause 20, 21, 22 or 23, wherein the floor component further
comprises a protective layer having a first face and an opposed
second face, with the first face of the protective layer bonded to
the opposed second face of the second structural layer.
[0254] Clause 25. The stacked building structures of clause 2,
wherein the roof component is a planar laminate that includes (i) a
planar foam panel layer having a first face and an opposed second
face, (ii) a planar first structural layer having an interior face
bonded to the first face of the foam panel layer and an exterior
face, and (iii) a planar second structural layer having a first
face, bonded to the second face of the foam panel layer, and an
opposed second face.
[0255] Clause 26. The stacked building structures of clause 25,
wherein the first structural layer of the roof component is a metal
sheet layer.
[0256] Clause 27. The stacked building structures of either of
clause 25 or 26, wherein the exterior face of the first structural
layer of the roof component is coincident with the top surface of
the roof component.
[0257] Clause 28. The stacked building structures of any one of
clause 25, 26 or 27, wherein the second structural layer of the
roof component is a metal sheet layer.
[0258] Clause 29. The stacked building structures of any one of
clause 25, 26, 27 or 28, wherein the roof component further
comprises a protective layer having a first face and an opposed
second face, with the first face of the protective layer bonded to
the opposed second face of the second structural layer.
[0259] Clause 30. The stacked building structures of clause 24,
wherein the protective layer is MgO.
[0260] Clause 31. The stacked building structures of clause 29,
wherein the protective layer is MgO.
* * * * *